Introduction

Eulachon, or oolichan, as they are also known, is a small fish in the smelt family, Osmeridae. Their scientific name Thaleichthys pacificus comes from the Greek word Thaleia, which means rich, and ichthys, which means fish. Pacificus means that they live in the Pacific Ocean. They are anadromous (live in saltwater, but spawn in freshwater) and migrate into some of the major river systems along the west coast of North America to spawn in the early spring every year. Eulachon are important fish for many reasons. They are the first arrivals to the river after winter and are a staple food source for many First Nations people along the coast. Eulachon are prepared many ways including having the grease rendered for packing and consumption. Grease trails from the coast through the interior of British Columbia mark the importance of eulachon grease as a trade item between coastal and interior First Nations.