Dive into Winter Fun at the Smelt Festival!

Mark your calendars: December 21, 2024 – February 16, 2025

Get ready for a unique winter experience at the Smelt Festival! More than just fishing, this festival offers a chance to embrace the chilly season and create lasting memories. Try your hand at smelt fishing and savor the taste of freshly fried smelt. This year, we’re adding a special twist: free sledding if the ice freezes thick enough! Plus, cozy up and fish in comfort from our heated bungalows.

What makes this Smelt Festival special? This year, we’re adding the thrill of sledding (weather permitting) to our lineup of winter activities, making it a truly unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Here’s what awaits you:

Main Attraction: Smelt Fishing – Test your angling skills and experience the thrill of the catch!
New This Year: Sledding (weather permitting) – Glide across the ice for a truly exhilarating winter adventure!
Family Fun: Free Smelt Dip Net Experience for Children and Left-Handed Dip Net Experience for Women – A fun and engaging activity for all ages.
Delicious Treats: Smelt Fries and Snacks – Warm up with crispy, delicious smelt fries and other tasty treats.
Warm and Cozy: Bungalow Rentals – Enjoy smelt fishing in comfort, sheltered from the elements.

Location: 37-48, Gobigogae-ro 741beon-gil, Ganghwa-gun, Incheon

Find Accommodation Near the Festival

Admission Fees:

Adults: 15,000 won
Children (36 months – Elementary School): 8,000 won
Infants (Under 36 months with supporting documents): Free

Contact: 010-9483-1366

Website: http://www.ssfestival.co.kr

What is Smelt Fish?

Smelt fish are small, silvery fish found in both freshwater and marine environments in the northern hemisphere. They have a delicate texture and mild flavor, making them a popular choice for culinary dishes, often prepared fried or grilled. Smelts are anadromous, migrating from saltwater to freshwater to spawn, usually in colder months. This migration ties them to winter activities and festivals, such as the Incheon Smelt Festival, where communities partake in smelt fishing. The seasonal fishing not only provides the enjoyment of a fresh catch but also fosters communal gatherings centered around preparing and sharing meals.