​STURGEON TECHNIQUES - GEAR
Power: L=Light. ML=Medium Light. M=Medium. MH=Medium Heavy. H=Heavy. Ex=Extra Heavy
Action: M=moderate. F=Fast. EF=Extra Fast
TECHNIQUES
Bottom Fishing
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How to Fish: Bottom fishing is the most common method for targeting sturgeon. Anglers cast heavy rigs baited with natural offerings to the riverbed and wait for sturgeon to locate the bait.
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Where to Fish:
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Deep holes in large rivers where sturgeon congregate.
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Lakes with deep channels and soft, muddy bottoms.
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Coastal estuaries where sturgeon move in with tidal changes.
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Gear Needed:
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Rod: Heavy-action rod (7-9 feet) capable of handling large fish.
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Reel: Conventional or large spinning reel with a strong drag system.
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Line: 50-100 lb braided or monofilament line with a 100+ lb leader.
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Rigs & Bait: Sliding sinker rigs, circle hooks (5/0-10/0), and bait such as salmon roe, squid, or nightcrawlers.
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Tips:
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Keep bait on the bottom with a heavy sinker (6-16 oz) to hold against currents.
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Use fresh, oily baits to attract sturgeon.
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Be patient, as sturgeon bites can be subtle before they commit.
Drift Fishing
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How to Fish:Drift fishing involves letting bait move naturally with the current to cover more area and locate active sturgeon.
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Where to Fish:
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Deep river channels where sturgeon are feeding.
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Areas with moderate current near drop-offs and submerged structures.
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Coastal inlets where tidal movement attracts sturgeon.
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Gear Needed:
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Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy-action rod (8-10 feet) with good sensitivity.
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Reel: Large spinning or baitcasting reel with a high line capacity.
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Line: 50-80 lb braided line with a fluorocarbon or monofilament leader.
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Bait & Rig: Natural bait such as lamprey, shrimp, or herring rigged on a drift rig with a sliding weight.
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Tips:
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Adjust the weight so the bait drifts just above the riverbed.
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Maintain a steady line tension to detect bites.
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Use a soft hookset as sturgeon have tough mouths.
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