White Sturgeon Fishing in the Pacific Northwest: A Guide to Catch and Release Adventures

White sturgeon, one of the largest freshwater fish in North America, are iconic in the Pacific Northwest, especially within the Columbia River Basin. Their impressive size and ancient lineage make them highly sought-after in sport fishing, even though retention fishing is limited to protect these vulnerable populations. Catch and release fishing for white sturgeon remains a popular year-round activity, offering anglers the thrill of hooking these "prehistoric giants" while supporting conservation.

Catch and release fishing for white sturgeon is permitted year-round in many areas, providing anglers ample opportunity to engage with these ancient fish without depleting their populations. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) encourages catch and release as part of a broader conservation strategy to protect white sturgeon, which are susceptible to overfishing due to their slow growth and late reproductive maturity.

The controlled approach of catch and release fishing plays a critical role in maintaining healthy sturgeon populations in the Pacific Northwest. The practice allows anglers to enjoy the sport without adversely impacting the species. Research indicates that when proper catch and release methods are followed, most white sturgeon survive, allowing these fish to continue their natural lifecycle and contribute to population stability.

Guided fishing trips are popular in the Pacific Northwest, where experts offer specialized excursions for anglers eager to experience sturgeon fishing under professional guidance. These guides ensure compliance with fishing regulations and provide essential equipment. Many services also target oversized sturgeon (over five feet long) in the Columbia River Basin, where the Washington and Oregon departments oversee strict conservation policies.

• Expert Guidance: Guides offer valuable local knowledge and tips for responsible sturgeon fishing.
  
  
• Equipment and Safety: From specialized rods to boats, professional guides equip anglers with everything needed for an effective and conservation-conscious experience.
  
  
• Target Locations: Trips frequently target the Columbia River, Willamette River, and select estuaries.

Several areas in the Pacific Northwest are renowned for sturgeon fishing, particularly the Columbia River, which supports some of the largest sturgeon populations in North America:

The Columbia River: The river is home to prime sturgeon fishing spots such as:

• The John Day Pool
  
  
• The Hanford Reach
  
  
• Near the Bonneville Dam and The Dalles Dam

The Willamette River: Popular near Portland, this river offers anglers a chance to hook sturgeon in accessible locations.

Coastal Estuaries: Various coastal estuaries in Oregon and Washington provide alternative fishing sites, often with guided excursions available.

Each location operates under specific regulations to prevent overfishing, with catch and release rules aimed at minimizing the impact on local fish populations.

Fishing for sturgeon requires specific techniques tailored to their habits as bottom-feeders. Using the right bait and targeting sturgeon "holes" in deep waters improves the chances of a successful outing. Standard techniques include:

• Bait Choice: Fresh bait like squid, lamprey, or shad is commonly used to attract sturgeon.
  
  
• Location Strategy: Positioning upstream from deep sturgeon holes allows anglers to drift their bait toward these massive fish.
  
  
• Depth Targeting: Anglers target deep holes in the river where sturgeon are most likely to be feeding.

As part of conservation efforts, various regulations govern sturgeon fishing in the Pacific Northwest. In most areas, white sturgeon catch and release is encouraged year-round, while green sturgeon, listed under the Endangered Species Act, must always be released immediately if encountered.

• Seasonal and size restrictions: Certain seasons and areas impose specific size limits and quotas on catch and release fishing.
  
  
• Green Sturgeon Protection: Green sturgeon must be released immediately if encountered, underscoring their protected status under the Endangered Species Act.

Following these guidelines is essential for preserving sturgeon populations and ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy the thrill of sturgeon fishing.

The enduring popularity of catch and release sturgeon fishing highlights the species' cultural and recreational importance in the Pacific Northwest. Through conservation-minded fishing practices and respect for regulations, anglers contribute to the preservation of these remarkable fish, allowing them to thrive in the region's rivers for generations to come.

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. "White Sturgeon Management." [WDFW](https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/sturgeon).

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. "White Sturgeon Conservation and Management."  

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. "Green Sturgeon - Endangered Species Act Protections."