Historic Sturgeon Population Found in Montana River

For the first time in over a hundred years, a population of wild sturgeon has been found in the Clark Fork River basin in Montana. The discovery was made by researchers from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) during an annual survey of fish populations in the region.

The last recorded population of wild sturgeon in the area was in 1912, when a dam was built on the Clark Fork River that blocked access to spawning grounds and disrupted traditional migration routes. As a result, the sturgeon population dwindled until they were thought to be extinct in the region.

"It's pretty exciting, we weren't really sure what to expect, but finding 11 of them was definitely a surprise," said FWP fisheries biologist Marc Thiessen.

The sturgeons were found near Thompson Falls in Sanders County. They ranged in size from 36 inches to 78 inches long and are thought to be 4-5 years old. Genetic tests will be conducted to confirm their identity.

The discovery provides hope for the future of the sturgeon population in the region. "Now that we know they are still here, we can start working on ways to improve spawning habitat and increase their numbers," said Thiessen.

Anglers Nab Monster Sturgeon on the Columbia River

STURGEON FISHING ON THE COLUMBIA RIVER

The Columbia River is a major tributary of the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest by volume, and the second largest by length after the Snake River. The Columbia River system includes 111 dams, which create 206 reservoirs including Lake Roosevelt. It drains a catchment area of 246,000 square miles (631,600 km²). The Columbia forms the Oregon–Washington border for nearly 230 miles (370 km).

Anglers from all over flock to this world-famous fishery in search of a giant sturgeon. Sturgeon can grow over 20 feet long and weigh more than 1,000 pounds. They are anadromous fish, spending most of their adult life in the ocean but returning to freshwater to spawn. Spawning generally takes place between late winter and early summer. Females lay eggs in nests that are typically dug out on sandbars or other gravel areas near shore. After spawning, sturgeon generally return to the ocean.

The best time for sturgeon fishing on the Columbia River varies depending on the stage of their spawning cycle. Generally, however, fishing is best from February through May when fish are migrating upriver to spawn. There are many different ways to fish for sturgeon on the Columbia River—live bait, plugs, spoons and even flies can be effective. However, because sturgeons are known for being picky eaters, it can often take some trial and error before finding what works best on any given day.

Anglers targeting sturgeon on the Columbia River often use hefty tackle—20-pound test line or heavier is not uncommon. Sturgeon can be incredibly strong fighters and putting them on the bank can sometimes be a challenge. But for those who manage to net one of these prehistoric creatures, it's an experience they will never forget!

Sturgeon Poachers Busted with Illegal Catch

A group of sturgeon poachers were apprehended by conservation officers recently with a large haul of illegally caught fish.

The men, who are all from the local area, were found with dozens of sturgeon, plus other fish, hidden in their vehicle.

It is believed that the group was intending to sell the fish on the black market, and they could now face punishments including jail time and hefty fines.

This latest bust comes as a warning to other would-be poachers that law enforcement is taking a zero-tolerance approach to this type of crime.

Sturgeon are a protected species in Ontario and it is illegal to catch them without a licence. The fish are also a valuable resource, with many people paying big money for their meat and eggs.

It's estimated that the men caught in this latest sting could have made more than $10,000 from selling their illicit catch.

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