When is the smelt fishing season at Lake Yamanaka? A comprehensive guide to the opening period, fishing season, and popular reservation rankings!

As usual, smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka will open on September 1st in 2025. For the latest information on catches, please check the Lake Yamanaka Fisheries Cooperative Association website.
On this page, Yamanashi Prefecture, Smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka (Smelt fishing) Special feature!
Popular reservation rankings and recommended plans for small and large ships We will also provide detailed information on fishing seasons, the best times to fish, and popular fishing seasons.
Together, Information on average prices, cheap plans, highly rated recommended businesses and shops, etc. Check out the information below to help you make a reservation.
table of contents
- 1 Lake Yamanaka Smelt Fishing Experience Tour Popularity Ranking
- 2 Lake Yamanaka Smelt Fishing Experience Tour Recommended Plan
- 3 Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing experience tour price
- 4 The appeal of smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka
- 5 Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing period and best fishing season
- 6 Clothing suitable for smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka
- 7 Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing dome boat reservations recommended businesses and shops
- 8 Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Yamanaka / Smelt Fishing
- 9 Editorial department recommended feature articles
Lake Yamanaka Smelt Fishing Experience Tour Popularity Ranking
First of all, based on the latest reservation data from Activity Japan, Lake Yamanaka smelt Popular fishing experience tour rankings I will introduce.
Shared boats and small chartered boats A popular plan for empty-handed smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka is ranked at the top.
Tour contents and fees (prices), Check out the reviews and testimonials Please use this to help you compare plans.
- 4.2
- (46 reviews and experiences)
Speaking of winter, this is it! Would you like to experience smelt fishing while looking at Mt. Fuji? It's a dome ship, so it's extremely cold! You can enjoy the experience! If you want to catch a lot of smelt, we recommend the morning! The best time to catch smelt is in the morning, so if you come in the morning, you'll have even more fun! Of course, you can choose the meeting time between 7:00 and 14:00 to suit your convenience.
- 4.7
- (84 reviews and experiences)
How about fishing for smelt on a small dome boat that doesn't require a boat license? You can reserve it for a small group and enjoy it at your own pace. The small dome ship is equipped with an engine, so you can move freely and easily! You can fish at any point you like. You can enjoy fishing comfortably while staying out of the wind, rain, and snow. Last return will be at 2pm. The engine cannot be used during freezing conditions.
[Yamanashi / Yamanakako] Wakasagi fishing dome ship 3 hours short plan Rental rod free (^^ ♪
- 4.1
- (12 reviews / experiences)
You can enjoy a safe, secure and comfortable smelt fishing experience at Lake Yamanaka, which is the closest to Mt. Fuji. ``Popular with beginners and women too!'' ``While looking at Mt. Fuji'' ``Enjoy without bringing anything.'' We will provide kind and thorough lectures for beginners. Please note that this plan is limited to weekdays and is not reserved for private use, but rather a shared ride. The standard age for boarding is 5 years or older and 80 years old.
[Lake Yamanaka] Smelt fishing boat (1 day) plan
Speaking of fishing at Lake Yamanaka, smelt is synonymous with fishing. Get on a boat and go fishing for smelt. Please take the fish you caught home and enjoy it with everyone.It's delicious!
- 4.0
- (1 review / experience)
This plan allows you to experience smelt fishing safely and securely. It is a 3-hour experience plan for 4 to 8 people. Since it is a private charter, pets can board. There is also a toilet, so you can rest assured in case of an emergency. Also, since it is a private charter, it is safe during times when viruses are prevalent. We thoroughly clean and disinfect the boat after rental. You can enjoy it stress-free on a warm, heated boat.
Let's fish smelt at Lake Yamanaka! This is a great-value charter experience course limited to weekends and holidays. * Up to 14 people can apply! We are implementing the following corona measures.・ Temperature is measured before boarding. * Those with a temperature of 37.5 degrees or higher will not be allowed to board.・ Alcohol disinfection is carried out before boarding.・ Alcohol disinfectant is always available on board
- 4.7
- (3 reviews / experiences)
Let's go fishing for smelt at Lake Yamanaka! Hand-rolled rental rod, device, and bait all included! This is a great value 3-hour private trial course available only on weekdays. *A maximum of 30 people can apply! We are implementing the following coronavirus countermeasures.・Temperature will be taken before boarding. *Persons with a temperature of 37.5 degrees or higher will be refused boarding.・Please use alcohol disinfection before boarding.
[Private Boat] Recommended for family and group trips! Private "smelt fishing" experience
★★Recommended for friends, family, and company trips! Experience smelt fishing on a "private boat"★★ Enjoy a private space without worrying about others! The private dome boat can accommodate up to 10 people (9 fishing seats). Please contact us if you have more than 10 people. ★Reasons why we recommend a private boat★・Children under the age of 4 who cannot board a shared boat can board the boat♪・Departure and disembarkation times are notified in advance.
- 4.4
- (37 reviews and experiences)
Let's go fishing for smelt at Lake Yamanaka! This is a course with a hand-wound rental rod and a gimmick. (Electric rental rods are also available as an option) *Feed will be charged an additional 100 yen on-site. Enjoy up to 6 hours from 7:00 to 13:00. Please apply for your desired boarding time when making a reservation (you can disembark at any time you like on site). Coro below
- 3.8
- (16 reviews and experiences)
We have introduced a new smelt fishing dome boat at Lake Yamanaka. Let's fish for smelt on a shiny and beautiful dome boat! It's an empty-handed plan that comes with everything you need including a rod, tackle, bait, and something to take home that you can easily experience in 2 to 3 hours. We will also give you free ice and Ziploc bags to take home, so please feel free to join us.
Lake Yamanaka Smelt Fishing Experience Tour Recommended Plan
Held by many shops Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing Experience Tour ..
" Which shop is best for smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka? I think many people are confused about which plan to choose, such as:
Users have asked if they are having trouble choosing a plan to book. The recommended method is to refer to reviews and word-of-mouth ratings. is.
Below are some of the activities carefully selected by the Activity Japan editorial department: Lake Yamanaka Smelt Fishing Experience Tour Recommended Plan "We will introduce you to "
Private small dome boat
- 4.7
- (84 reviews and experiences)
How about fishing for smelt on a small dome boat that doesn't require a boat license? You can reserve it for a small group and enjoy it at your own pace. The small dome ship is equipped with an engine, so you can move freely and easily! You can fish at any point you like. You can enjoy fishing comfortably while staying out of the wind, rain, and snow. Last return will be at 2pm. The engine cannot be used during freezing conditions.
- 3.0
- (12 reviews / experiences)
Speaking of Lake Yamanaka, winter "smelt fishing"! Smelt fishing while looking up at the magnificent view of Mt. Fuji is exceptional. You can enjoy it every year from mid-September to around April. From February to March, you can catch the most delicious smelt because it is greasy while hugging eggs ♪ There is no need to worry about contact with others at the chartered dome. You can use it as a group with confidence. *
Large shared dome boat
- 4.2
- (46 reviews and experiences)
Speaking of winter, this is it! Would you like to experience smelt fishing while looking at Mt. Fuji? It's a dome ship, so it's extremely cold! You can enjoy the experience! If you want to catch a lot of smelt, we recommend the morning! The best time to catch smelt is in the morning, so if you come in the morning, you'll have even more fun! Of course, you can choose the meeting time between 7:00 and 14:00 to suit your convenience.
[Yamanashi / Yamanakako] Wakasagi fishing dome ship 3 hours short plan Rental rod free (^^ ♪
- 4.1
- (12 reviews / experiences)
You can enjoy a safe, secure and comfortable smelt fishing experience at Lake Yamanaka, which is the closest to Mt. Fuji. ``Popular with beginners and women too!'' ``While looking at Mt. Fuji'' ``Enjoy without bringing anything.'' We will provide kind and thorough lectures for beginners. Please note that this plan is limited to weekdays and is not reserved for private use, but rather a shared ride. The standard age for boarding is 5 years or older and 80 years old.
Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing experience tour price
" Smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka How much does it cost to experience it? "or" What is the cheapest place to go smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka? I'm sure there are many people out there researching prices, such as:
Currently, Activity Japan is The lowest price is 3,500 yen (tax included) per two-seater board. We are introducing Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing tour plans that can be booked.
Overall The average price is around 4,000 to 5,000 yen (tax included) per participant. ..
The fee mainly includes Includes dome boat boarding fee, experience fee (lecture fee), consumption tax, etc. The case is common.
Also, There may be additional fees for renting and taking home fishing gear. So please check the plan details before making a reservation.
Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing experience tour price ranking
[Lake Yamanaka] Smelt fishing boat (1 day) plan
Speaking of fishing at Lake Yamanaka, smelt is synonymous with fishing. Get on a boat and go fishing for smelt. Please take the fish you caught home and enjoy it with everyone.It's delicious!
- 3.8
- (16 reviews and experiences)
We have introduced a new smelt fishing dome boat at Lake Yamanaka. Let's fish for smelt on a shiny and beautiful dome boat! It's an empty-handed plan that comes with everything you need including a rod, tackle, bait, and something to take home that you can easily experience in 2 to 3 hours. We will also give you free ice and Ziploc bags to take home, so please feel free to join us.
- 4.2
- (46 reviews and experiences)
Speaking of winter, this is it! Would you like to experience smelt fishing while looking at Mt. Fuji? It's a dome ship, so it's extremely cold! You can enjoy the experience! If you want to catch a lot of smelt, we recommend the morning! The best time to catch smelt is in the morning, so if you come in the morning, you'll have even more fun! Of course, you can choose the meeting time between 7:00 and 14:00 to suit your convenience.
- 4.1
- (8 reviews / experiences)
Why do not you experience winter tradition, smelt fishing at the foot of Mt. Fuji? Because it is a dome ship, you can experience it comfortably! Since the ship has a capacity of 8 people, it can be enjoyed by groups such as family, friends and colleagues! (Since there are 2 boats, it can accommodate up to 16 people.) You can choose your favorite time zone from 7:00 to 13:00. A convenient time
- 4.3
- (7 reviews / experiences)
Enjoy a safe, secure and comfortable smelt fishing experience at Lake Yamanaka, the closest lake to Mt. Fuji. "Popular with beginners and women!" "Enjoy the experience empty-handed while gazing at Mt. Fuji." Beginners will receive a friendly and thorough lecture. The boarding age limit is 5 years old and above, up to 80 years old. Please note that children under 5 years old are not allowed on board. - Regarding the publication of photos
The appeal of smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka

As a winter outdoor leisure activity in the Kanto-Koshinetsu area Boasting overwhelming popularity Smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka ..
From families and couples to groups of friends, companies, schools, etc. Huge support from a wide range of customers We are collecting.
From here, The appeal of smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka We will unravel this point by point.
Warm and comfortable dome boat smelt fishing
In Lake Yamanaka, where the lake surface does not freeze even in winter, Smelt fishing held on a dome boat (yakatabune) will be done.
The dome interior not only protects you from the wind and rain, Enjoy smelt fishing in comfort on a heated boat You can enjoy the following.
You can participate empty-handed by renting fishing equipment
At Lake Yamanaka, you can enjoy smelt fishing. You can rent a full set of fishing equipment (rods, bait, etc.) is.
Therefore, you don't need to prepare any special equipment and can enjoy it in between sightseeing at Lake Yamanaka. Empty-handed smelt fishing You can enjoy the following.
Fun for small children and beginners
Once you get the hang of it after receiving a basic lecture from the staff, Anyone can easily catch fish This is also one of the attractions of smelt fishing.
The low barrier to entry makes it a popular choice for families with small children. The reason why it is popular with people of all ages and genders, including those who have never fished before is.
The catch can be eaten as tempura or fried chicken.
Smelt fishing is " Enjoy fishing and eat deliciously " is the basic way to enjoy it.
The smelt I caught was, You can cook it into tempura or fried chicken and eat it on the spot, or take it to a nearby restaurant to eat. There is a service.
Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing period and best fishing season
" When is the best season to go smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka? Questions about the event period are also frequently asked questions.
Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing of The opening date is usually September 1st ..
Many shops are open on the opening day. September 1st to late June This is the season for smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka.
Highest demand of the year The most popular times are December and January, which include winter vacation, New Year's holidays, and the New Year's holiday. is.
on the other hand, The best times to catch them are right after the season starts in September and October, and in early spring around April and May. It is said that...
Clothing suitable for smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka
" What should I wear when smelt fishing? "or" Is Lake Yamanaka cold in winter? " I'm sure there are many people out there researching information about clothing, such as:
Lake Yamanaka is at its peak in winter for smelt fishing. Areas where minimum temperatures often drop below freezing is.
Smelt fishing at Lake Yamanaka When enjoying the day, please bring a down jacket, knitted hat, gloves, etc. Thorough measures against the cold and warm clothing are recommended will be done.
Also, Comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting dirty It would be better to choose.
For more information on what to wear and what to bring, see below. Check out the featured articles and tour plan details to book please.
Recommended articles on clothing for smelt fishing
Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing dome boat reservations recommended businesses and shops
Finally, the "Activity Japan" which can be booked online now Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing List of recommended businesses and shops I will introduce.
If you're unsure which business or shop to book with It is recommended to refer to reviews and word-of-mouth evaluations How to.
Information on how to get to the venue and activity experience plans For basic store information, please see the shop link below. You can check it.
- 4.4
- (25 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- Flyboard (flying in the sky with water pressure)
- Wake Board
- Banana boat towing tube
First of all Fuji Five Lakes (Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka, etc.)! How about fishing for smelt with your family and friends on a solar-powered multipurpose boat (pleasure boat, cool boat, houseboat, smelt dome boat)? In addition, it is a general information center for "playing Lake Yamanaka!" Such as wakeboarding, black bass fishing, and bicycle rental. Please feel free to drop by.
- 4.5
- (58 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- SUP (SUP) stand-up paddle board
- Flyboard (flying in the sky with water pressure)
- Wake Board
At the foot of Mt. Fuji, at Lake Yamanaka, the boathouse "SHUSUIYA" operates marine sports, motor boats, smelt fishing on swan and dome boats (from September to June), and bass fishing. It is about 10 minutes by car from the Yamanakako IC. "SHUSUIYA" offers many plans to enjoy marine sports from April to November! The popular flyboard and wakeboard set plan is the most popular. You can enjoy activities while watching the magnificent view of Mt. Fuji in the wilderness of Lake Yamanaka.
- 4.3
- (56 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- SUP (SUP) stand-up paddle board
- Mountain bike (MTB) / downhill
- Smelt fishing / ice smelt fishing
You can enjoy smelt fishing, pleasure boat boats, and bicycle rentals ♪
- 4.5
- (107 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- others
- SUP (SUP) stand-up paddle board
- Flyboard (flying in the sky with water pressure)
Hakutaka Marin will show you how to enjoy marine leisure, which is different from other marine spots in Lake Yamanaka and Fuji Five Lakes in Yamanashi Prefecture! Please leave Hakutaka Marin to play in the water at Lake Yamanaka!
- 4.1
- (91 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- SUP (SUP) stand-up paddle board
- Wake Board
- Banana boat towing tube
Enjoy the real pleasure of fishing for smelt on board the ship, which is fully equipped with heating and toilets! ・ "Wakasagi Maru" in the shape of a unique smelt ・ Bench-style, Western-style "Mississippi" ・ "Wakasagi Hunter" with a capacity of 100 people We have 3 dome boats (houseboats) to meet your needs. In addition, we have a variety of leisure activities such as wakeboarding and banana boats that children and adults can immerse themselves in.
- 3.7
- (22 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- SUP (SUP) stand-up paddle board
- Flyboard (flying in the sky with water pressure)
- Wake Board
Shizuyamaso is located at the foot of Mt. Fuji, one of the Five Lakes of Fuji, Lake Yamanaka. Leisure at Lake Yamanaka! Shizuyamaso offers leisure experiences such as fishing, sightseeing boats, and wakeboarding at Lake Yamanaka. A veteran guide will take care of you so that customers who visit Lake Yamanaka can bring back more enjoyable memories. If you want to play at Lake Yamanaka, leave it to Shizuyamaso! We look forward to welcoming you ♪
- 4.4
- (39 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- others
- SUP (SUP) stand-up paddle board
- Flyboard (flying in the sky with water pressure)
At Marina Eighteen, we are offering marine sports at a very reasonable price so that even beginners can feel free to experience it in a fun way! Lake Yamanaka is cheap, but it's not an omission! Why don't you take this opportunity to experience the flyboard? When you come to Yamanakako, please feel free to visit Marina Eighteen here. All the staff are looking forward to your visit.
- 4.7
- (84 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Otsuki / Tsuru / Doshi Valley
- Smelt fishing / ice smelt fishing
- Sea fishing / fishing boat
Since no boat license is required, we have a variety of boats that anyone can easily enjoy fishing. Ideal for black bass and smelt fishing! The small dome boat for smelt fishing is reserved, so it is also recommended for families. We also have a variety of rental items, and it's nice to be able to enjoy fishing empty-handed. We also provide fishing guidance and advice, so please feel free to join us for beginners and women-only groups!
- 4.8
- (4 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- Smelt fishing / ice smelt fishing
- Jet ski / water ski
Lake Yamanaka at an altitude of 1000m has a pleasant refreshing breeze in the summer. It deserves to be called a natural cooler! !! The marine life while looking at Mt. Fuji, which is the best in Japan, is the best environment! !! You can enjoy marine jets, jet skis, wakeboards, banana boats, and smelt fishing all year round. Katsuraya Boat House supports such customers.
- 4.3
- (79 reviews)
- Koshinetsu
- Yamanashi
- Lake Yamanaka / Oshino
- SUP (SUP) stand-up paddle board
- Flyboard (flying in the sky with water pressure)
- Wake Board
Gakuroku Marine is a wakeboard shop that you can enjoy at a much lower price than other stores. Besides wakeboarding, you can enjoy various marine sports such as skating and banana boating! We also lend out tools, and there is a changing room, so no special preparation is required. Please feel free to come! You can also have a barbecue near the shop, so enjoy it with your friends, family and other like-minded friends.
*The content of this article is current as of September 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Yamanaka / Smelt Fishing
Q Basic information on smelt fishing
A The main fishing season for smelt is from autumn to winter, but it is a standard lake leisure activity that can be enjoyed all year round. Smelt fishing experience tours can be broadly divided into two types. One is ``Ice Fishing for Smelt'', which is enjoyed by drilling a hole on the surface of a frozen lake, and the other is ``Dome Boat Fishing for Smelt'', which is enjoyed by floating a special boat on an unfrozen lake that does not freeze even in winter.
Q How to get to Lake Yamanaka from the city center?
A For private cars, get off at the Yamanakako IC via the Higashifujigoko Road from the Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway. It takes about 90 minutes. By train, it takes about 3 hours from "Mt. Fuji Station" on the Fujikyuko Line or "Gotemba Station" on the JR Gotemba Line to Lake Yamanaka by taking the Fujikyu route bus. In addition, if you take the express bus from Shinjuku Station, Tokyo Station, or Yokohama Station, you can arrive in about 2 hours.
Q What tools do you need for smelt fishing?
A A fishing rod dedicated to smelt fishing, a reel attached to the rod to wind up the fishing line, a device, bait, etc. are required. Since fishing line is hung on a group of smelt deep in the lake, the electric reel is especially recommended for beginners to shorten the winding time of the line. Many shops rent out tools for the smelt fishing experience tour, so it is a good idea to check when you apply.
Q What are the characteristics of smelt fishing in Lake Yamanaka?
A Lake Yamanaka, located in the southeastern part of Yamanashi Prefecture, is one of the Five Lakes of Fuji that spreads out at the foot of Mt. Fuji, which allows day trips from the city center. Smelt fishing is a leisure activity that represents Lake Yamanaka, and you can enjoy smelt fishing except during the summer ban period from September, which is the opening day of the ban every year. Since we use a dome boat equipped with heating and toilets, it is a feature of Lake Yamanaka smelt fishing that children and adults can enjoy it comfortably and safely even in winter and expect fishing results.