Kelt

The term 'Kelt' (or 'kelt') is primarily used in aquaculture and angling to describe a salmon or sea trout that has spawned and is returning to the sea. These fish are typically emaciated, having expended significant energy during the spawning process. Their flesh is often of lower quality than that of unspawned fish. The term can also be used, though less commonly, to refer to a male salmon or sea trout that has released milt (sperm). Therefore, the use of 'Kelt' can encompass both male and female salmonids post-spawning, emphasizing their depleted physical condition. Historically, and within specific regional dialects, 'kelt' has lesser known usages to describe a specific type of boat or refers to other types of sea animal.

Kelt meaning with examples

• The anglers were disappointed to find several Kelt in the river, indicating the spawning run had completed. These fish, easily identified by their gaunt appearance, would need time to recover and replenish their strength in the sea before they could be considered healthy. The presence of Kelt, while not desirable for immediate catches, suggested a successful reproductive cycle in the ecosystem.
• After a prolonged period of heavy fishing, the river’s salmon population had several kelt. These depleted salmon, although representing the success of the year's spawning run, were often returned to the river due to poor flesh quality. Fishermen recognize the value of letting the weakened fish return to the sea for recovery, supporting a sustainable cycle.
• The fish farmer observed that some of the salmon had become Kelt following the artificial spawning process. These post-spawning fish were promptly separated from the remaining population, allowing the farm to maintain optimal water conditions for the more vibrant and well-fed salmon. The farmer was very well aware of what the appearance of the Kelt salmon was to the average buyer.
• The researchers marked a number of Kelt with tags to track their migration and recovery in the ocean. The data gathered about these post-spawning fish would provide information. The tags would measure the speed of their trip to the ocean, how long they stayed, and their health while doing it. Their data was used to understand their lifecycle to assist the success of sustainable practices.
• As the sea trout completed their spawning run, the river began to fill with kelt. Anglers were aware of the fish and the change that this marked, signifying the shift in angling focus from catching prime fish to ensuring the survival of these depleted individuals. The anglers knew that this was the change of season and the cycle.