1. Know Where to Find White Sturgeon
White sturgeon inhabit the Pacific Northwest, particularly in the Columbia River and its tributaries, and in other areas such as the Fraser River in Canada. They prefer deep, slow-moving waters, often staying near the bottom. Look for them in areas with strong currents or around river bends, drop-offs, and submerged structures. These spots provide natural feeding grounds where sturgeon can find an abundance of food.
2. Choose the Right Gear
To tackle a giant white sturgeon, you’ll need the right gear to handle the size and power of these fish. Here’s what you should have in your arsenal:
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Rod and Reel: A heavy-duty, 7-9 foot rod with a strong backbone is essential. The rod should have a soft tip to detect bites but enough strength to fight a large fish. A high-quality, saltwater-rated reel with a capacity of at least 200 yards of 80-100 lb. test line is ideal.
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Line: Use a heavy monofilament or braided line rated for 80-100 lb. test. This will ensure you can reel in big sturgeon without worrying about line breakage.
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Leader Line: A thick leader line (100-150 lb. test) is necessary to withstand the abrasive underwater environment and prevent fraying from rocks, debris, and the sturgeon’s rough skin.
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Hooks: Circle hooks, sized 10/0 to 14/0, work well for sturgeon fishing. These hooks are effective at setting themselves in the fish’s mouth, reducing the chances of losing your catch.
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Weights: Sturgeon fishing typically requires heavy weights, often in the 8-12 ounce range, to keep the bait on the river bottom where sturgeon feed.
3. Pick the Right Bait
White sturgeon are bottom feeders, and they love smelly, protein-packed bait. The most effective baits include:
- Sardines or Herring: Fresh or frozen, these fish are a sturgeon favorite due to their strong scent and high oil content.
- Lamprey Eel: If you can find it, lamprey eel is a natural food source for sturgeon and an irresistible bait.
- Squid or Mackerel: These baits offer a tough texture and strong scent, making them great for sturgeon fishing.
Make sure to present your bait near the bottom, as sturgeon are typically found at depths of 30-200 feet. Use a bottom rig to keep your bait stationary in the feeding zone.
4. Perfect Your Technique: Setting the Hook
Once you’ve cast your bait, it’s important to be patient. Sturgeon bites are often subtle, and you’ll need to wait for the fish to fully take the bait. When you feel a bite, wait a moment before setting the hook. This ensures that the hook is fully embedded in the fish’s mouth.
The best way to set the hook is by performing a slow, steady pull. Avoid sharp jerking motions, which can cause the hook to dislodge.
5. Fight the Fish: Patience and Power
Once you’ve hooked a white sturgeon, the real challenge begins. These fish are powerful and can put up an intense fight, often using their large tails to thrash and shake the hook free. Here’s how to handle the battle:
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Keep Tension on the Line: As soon as the fish strikes, maintain tension on the line. You’ll need to reel in the slack slowly and carefully, working with the fish’s movements rather than against them.
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Don’t Rush the Fight: Sturgeon fights can last for hours, especially when targeting larger specimens. Be prepared for a lengthy battle and avoid trying to rush the fish to the boat. Patience is key.
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Use the Boat to Your Advantage: If you’re fishing from a boat, use it to your advantage by maneuvering to stay directly over the fish. This helps prevent the fish from reaching structure and potentially breaking the line.
6. Handle with Care: Proper Catch and Release
If you’re fishing for sport and plan to release the sturgeon, it’s vital to handle them properly to ensure their survival. Here’s how to release a sturgeon safely:
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Minimize Air Exposure: Sturgeon have sensitive gills and can be easily stressed by being out of the water for too long. Keep the fish in the water as much as possible while removing the hook.
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Use Barbless Hooks: If you’re practicing catch and release, barbless hooks are ideal. They make the hook removal process smoother and less damaging to the fish.
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Revive the Fish: Gently hold the sturgeon by the tail, allowing it to swim forward slowly to revive. Move the fish back and forth in the water to help pump oxygen through its gills.
7. Follow the Regulations
Before heading out, always check the local fishing regulations to ensure you’re fishing within legal limits. In many areas, there are strict regulations regarding the size, season, and bag limits for sturgeon fishing, as these fish are protected in some regions.
Conclusion: The Thrill of Landing a Giant
Reeling in a white sturgeon is an exhilarating experience, and with the right preparation, gear, and technique, you can increase your chances of landing one of these giants. Whether you’re targeting a trophy fish or enjoying the challenge, following these tips will help you fish smarter and more effectively. So, gather your gear, head to the river, and prepare for the ultimate angling adventure. Good luck, and may your next catch be a giant!
