White Sturgeon

Description
The sturgeon is the largest of all American freshwater fish. They reside in the depths of the Snake and Kootenai rivers. Historically, specimens to 1,500 pounds were caught on set lines. Today, six-foot sturgeon can be caught. Sturgeon must not be removed from the water and cannot be kept.

Life History
Sturgeon spawn for the first time when they are 10-15 years old. Eggs are laid over rocky bottom in swift currents near rapids. Spawning usually takes place in May and June. It is estimated that a 35-pound female could lay 700,000 eggs. Some larger females could lay four million eggs. The eggs are very small, and so are the baby sturgeon.

Many of the young sturgeon will die within the first year. They grow and mature slowly. Very little is known about their early life history compared to other species of fish. We know they used to migrate long distances. The fish remaining in Idaho no longer have the opportunity to migrate because of dams and natural barriers.

Feeding Habits
The sturgeon is a bottom feeder and will eat almost any plant or animal matter dead or alive - with fish a large part of the diet.

Angling Techniques
You may only fish for sturgeon in Idaho on a catch-and-release basis. The Snake and Kootenai rivers are the only locations where they are found. Cut bait and large clusters of night crawlers fished on the bottom are the best way to catch this species. BE SURE TO USE HEAVY DUTY SETUPS, or the sturgeon will be dragging your gear around without you.