How to Catch White Sturgeon: A Complete Fall Fishing Guide
White sturgeon are among the most sought-after freshwater fish due to their massive size, incredible strength, and prehistoric lineage. Catching one of these giant fish requires skill, patience, and the right strategy. Fall is the best time to target white sturgeon, as they actively feed in preparation for winter.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, this comprehensive guide covers the best fishing locations, techniques, bait selection, regulations, and gear to help you maximize your success.
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Where to Catch White Sturgeon: Best Fishing Locations
White sturgeon are found in large rivers and estuaries along the Pacific Northwest. Here are the top rivers for sturgeon fishing:
1. Columbia River (Oregon/Washington)
📍 Best Spots: Bonneville Dam, Astoria, Portland, Hanford Reach
🔹 Why Fish Here? Home to some of the largest white sturgeon, this river is famous for record-breaking catches.
2. Fraser River (British Columbia, Canada)
📍 Best Spots: Chilliwack, Mission, Hope
🔹 Why Fish Here? Massive sturgeon weighing over 1,000 lbs can be caught here. Catch-and-release only.
3. Sacramento River (California)
📍 Best Spots: Sacramento Delta, Rio Vista, Knights Landing
🔹 Why Fish Here? Excellent fall and winter sturgeon fishing, especially in deep channels.
4. Snake River (Idaho/Washington)
📍 Best Spots: Hells Canyon, Lower Snake River
🔹 Why Fish Here? Deep waters and strong currents create ideal sturgeon habitat.
5. Willamette River (Oregon)
📍 Best Spots: St. Johns Bridge, Portland Harbor
🔹 Why Fish Here? A tributary of the Columbia River, this river has a healthy sturgeon population.
6. San Joaquin River (California)
📍 Best Spots: Stockton, Antioch, Suisun Bay
🔹 Why Fish Here? Fall sturgeon runs peak in October and November.
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Best Time to Catch White Sturgeon
✔️ September–November – Prime season when sturgeon actively feed
✔️ Incoming Tides – Tidal movements stir up food, making sturgeon more active
✔️ Early Morning & Late Afternoon – Cooler temperatures trigger feeding activity
✔️ Cloudy, Overcast Days – Lower light levels make sturgeon less cautious
Best Bait for White Sturgeon
Using the right bait can make all the difference. Sturgeon are bottom feeders, so your bait should mimic their natural diet:
Top Baits for White Sturgeon:
✅ Herring – A go-to bait for sturgeon fishing
✅ Salmon Roe – Irresistible to big sturgeon
✅ Eel & Lamprey – Strong scent, excellent for murky waters
✅ Squid & Shrimp – Natural food source for sturgeon
✅ Fresh Shad – Great for catching trophy-sized fish
🔹 Tip: Fresh bait works best! Keep your bait cold and fresh for maximum success.
White Sturgeon Fishing Regulations & Permit Costs
White sturgeon are heavily regulated to ensure population sustainability. Make sure you have the right fishing license and permits:
Oregon & Washington (Columbia River, Willamette River)
🎫 Resident License: $44.00
🎫 Non-Resident License: $110.50
🎫 Columbia River Basin Endorsement: $9.75
🔹 Regulations: Only sturgeon between 44-50 inches (fork length) can be retained.
California (Sacramento & San Joaquin Rivers)
🎫 Resident License: $54.00
🎫 Non-Resident License: $145.80
🎫 Sturgeon Report Card: $9.72 (Required)
🔹 Regulations: Retention size 40-60 inches; strict reporting requirements.
British Columbia (Fraser River)
🎫 Resident License: CAD 36.00
🎫 Non-Resident (8-day license): CAD 55.00
🔹 Regulations: Catch-and-release only.
Idaho/Washington (Snake River)
🎫 Idaho Resident License: $30.50
🎫 Non-Resident License: $98.25
🎫 Washington Resident License: $29.50
🎫 Non-Resident License: $84.50
🔹 Regulations: Catch-and-release only, gear restrictions apply.
⚠️ Always check local regulations before fishing!
FAQs About Catching White Sturgeon
Q: What is the best bait for white sturgeon?
A: Herring, salmon roe, eel, squid, and fresh shad work best.
Q: Do I need a special permit to fish for sturgeon?
A: Yes, most regions require a fishing license and a sturgeon-specific permit.
Q: Where can I buy high-quality sturgeon fillets?
A: Global Seafoods offers premium sturgeon fillets, hot smoked sturgeon, and caviar.
Q: What’s the best time of day to fish for sturgeon?
A: Early mornings and late afternoons during incoming tides.
Conclusion: Master the Art of Sturgeon Fishing
Catching white sturgeon in fall is an exhilarating experience that requires strategy, patience, and the right gear. By fishing in prime locations, using the best bait, and following regulations, you can significantly increase your chances of landing a trophy sturgeon.
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