Officials Predicted Biggest Smelt Run in 1956 History

Bygones: A look back at notable news from Duluth over the decades

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:11am

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph depicting the hazy, atmospheric scene of people fishing along the shores of Lake Superior, with the distant outline of a ship on the horizon, conveying the nostalgic mood and timeless nature of this local tradition.The annual smelt run on Lake Superior has long been a cherished tradition in the Duluth community, with residents and commercial fishermen alike eagerly anticipating the arrival of these small, silvery fish.Duluth Today

In 1956, Ben Gustafson, the French River district fisheries supervisor, predicted that year's smelt run would be "the biggest in history." Commercial fishermen had already netted 2,400 pounds of smelt on the bay side of Minnesota Point after a test net brought up 100 pounds.

Why it matters

The smelt run is an important annual event for the Duluth community, both commercially and recreationally. Gustafson's prediction highlights the unpredictable nature of natural resources and the challenges fisheries managers face in forecasting seasonal runs.

The details

In 1956, a test net off the bay side of Minnesota Point brought up 100 pounds of smelt, leading the French River district fisheries supervisor, Ben Gustafson, to predict that year's smelt run would be "the biggest in history." Commercial fishermen then netted 2,400 pounds of smelt in the same area.

  • On April 17, 1956, Gustafson made his prediction about the upcoming smelt run.
  • Also on April 17, 1956, commercial fishermen netted 2,400 pounds of smelt on the bay side of Minnesota Point.

The players

Ben Gustafson

The French River district fisheries supervisor who predicted the 1956 smelt run would be the biggest in history.

Christiansen Fish & Freight Company

A company that operated the steamer Winyah, which was initially constructed as a luxury yacht for Andrew Carnegie before being retrofitted as a freighter and brought to Duluth.

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The takeaway

The unpredictable nature of natural resources like the smelt run highlights the challenges fisheries managers face in accurately forecasting seasonal events, even decades ago. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of monitoring and carefully managing these vital natural resources for the Duluth community.