Fishing Tips: How To Catch Lake Sturgeon

Lake Sturgeon

Very large, up to 200 lbs.

Very heavy rods and lines.

High.

High, rare and protected in many areas.

Limited to specific large lakes and rivers.

Legendary

More photos of Lake Sturgeon.

Lake Sturgeon are one of North America’s oldest and largest freshwater fish, revered by anglers for their size and the unique challenge they present. These bottom-dwelling giants are found in large river systems and lakes, often in deeper waters with strong currents. Successful sturgeon fishing requires knowledge of their habitat, patience, and the right tackle setup.

Techniques such as bottom fishing with heavy-duty gear and using baits that appeal to the sturgeon’s diet of worms, baitfish, and crustaceans are essential.

Baits For Catching Lake Sturgeon:

Berkley Gulp! Catfish Chunks

Soft plastic baits, such as the Berkley Gulp! Catfish Chunks, are designed to imitate the scent an...

Soft plastic baits, such as the Berkley Gulp! Catfish Chunks, are designed to imitate the scent and texture of natural baits. These chunks are infused with a strong scent that attracts bottom-dwelling fish. They can be used on a hook or jighead and are effective in various environments.
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Cut Herring

Cut herring is another excellent choice for Sturgeon bait. Its oily flesh releases a potent scent ...

Cut herring is another excellent choice for Sturgeon bait. Its oily flesh releases a potent scent trail that can attract fish from a distance. Herring can be used fresh or frozen, and cut into chunks or strips for bait. This bait is especially effective in tidal waters and large rivers.
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Cut Shad

Cut shad is an effective bait for many species of fish, especially catfish. The oily flesh of shad...

Cut shad is an effective bait for many species of fish, especially catfish. The oily flesh of shad releases a strong scent trail in the water, attracting fish from far away.
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Leeches

Leeches are another effective live bait option. Their natural swimming action and scent make them ...

Leeches are another effective live bait option. Their natural swimming action and scent make them highly attractive. Hooking them through the sucker or body keeps them alive and wriggling, making them an enticing target.
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Nightcrawlers

Nightcrawlers, a type of earthworm, are highly effective live bait due to their natural scent and ...

Nightcrawlers, a type of earthworm, are highly effective live bait due to their natural scent and movement. They are commonly used for a wide range of fish species. When hooked correctly, they wriggle enticingly in the water, drawing the attention of nearby fish. Nightcrawlers can be used in various fishing environments, from freshwater lakes to rivers.
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More Thoughts on Baits: Choosing the right bait is critical when targeting Lake Sturgeon. Since they rely heavily on scent to find food, baits that are rich in natural odors are particularly effective. It’s also common to use combinations of baits to increase the scent trail and attract sturgeon more effectively.

Gear To Use For Catching Lake Sturgeon:

Gear Type	Specifications	Purpose
Rod/Reel	Heavy action rod paired with a strong reel capable of handling heavy line weights.	Necessary to combat the size and strength of Lake Sturgeon.
Line	50-80 lb test braided line for its strength and abrasion resistance.	Ensures durability against the sturgeon’s weight and rough habitat.
Hook	Size 5/0-7/0 hooks, strong and sharp.	Suitable for securely holding large baits and ensuring solid hooksets.
Weights	Heavy enough to keep baits on the river or lake bottom despite currents.	Critical for maintaining bait placement in sturgeon habitats.

More Thoughts on Gear:

Sturgeon fishing demands robust gear due to the potential size of the fish—often exceeding 100 pounds—and their powerful fights. High-quality, durable tackle is essential to handle these battles and prevent equipment failures.

Best Time Of Year To Catch / Weather Conditions:

The best times to catch Lake Sturgeon are during their spring and fall migrations when they move to shallow waters to spawn. During these periods, sturgeon are more concentrated and active, making them easier to target.

Most Active Feeding Times: Lake Sturgeon are typically most active during the early morning and late evening hours. However, during spawning seasons, they can be active throughout the day as they move into more accessible areas.

How To Identify If You Caught Lake Sturgeon: Lake Sturgeon are recognizable by their shark-like bodies, pointed snouts with whisker-like barbels near the mouth, and rows of bony plates along their sides. They lack typical fish scales and have a rubbery, armor-plated exterior. These features, combined with their size, make them distinctive among freshwater fish. For more detailed identification or to confirm your catch, resources like the Catchpedia Fish Identifier can be consulted.