Catching Dinosaurs: Spring Fishing for Sturgeon on the Rainy River

The Rainy River, sandwiched between Minnesota and Canada and flowing into the western tip of Lake Superior, is home to one of the most iconic species of freshwater fish: the lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens). Known for their prehistoric appearance and remarkable size, these ancient creatures have captivated anglers for centuries. Spring on the Rainy River provides a particularly exciting time for fishing, as sturgeon migrate up the river to spawn. In this article, we will delve into the history of lake sturgeon, why the spring season is so special for fishing, and explore other locations where anglers can chase these prehistoric fish.

The History of the Lake Sturgeon

Lake sturgeon are one of the oldest species of fish in North America, with a lineage stretching back over 100 million years to the Cretaceous period. These large fish were once widespread across the Great Lakes, the upper Mississippi River system, and other waterways in the northern United States and Canada. They are distinguished by their bony armor-like plates, long snout, and whisker-like barbels that help them detect food on the riverbed.

Historically, lake sturgeon were a crucial resource for indigenous peoples in the Great Lakes and surrounding regions. Native American communities, including the Ojibwe and Menominee, have long harvested sturgeon for food, using their meat, eggs, and even their bones for tools and ceremonial purposes. The fish were so valuable that they were often considered sacred, and elaborate rituals were held around sturgeon harvests.

However, with the advent of European settlement, sturgeon populations began to decline rapidly. Overfishing, habitat destruction due to damming and industrialization, and pollution contributed to a sharp decrease in their numbers. By the 1900s, many sturgeon populations had become severely depleted, and the species was considered endangered in several areas.

In the 20th century, conservation efforts were put into place to protect sturgeon populations, including restrictions on commercial fishing, habitat restoration, and stocking programs to replenish the fish's numbers. These efforts have seen some success, though sturgeon populations remain fragile in many parts of their range.

The Spring Migration

For anglers, the spring migration of sturgeon on the Rainy River is the most anticipated time of year. As the weather warms and the ice begins to melt, sturgeon make their way from their wintering grounds in the deeper parts of the river or Lake of the Woods, moving toward shallow, gravel-bottomed areas to spawn. This annual migration creates a window of opportunity for anglers to catch these giant fish, which can reach lengths of over six feet and weigh more than 100 pounds.

Spring is also a great time to fish for sturgeon on the Rainy River because of the natural behavior of the fish during their spawning period. Sturgeon are known for their distinctive feeding behavior, and during the spring run, they become more concentrated in certain areas, making them easier to target. As the fish move upstream, they are often found in slower-moving waters near the river’s banks or in deep holes. Anglers can expect to encounter these large fish in April and May, with peak fishing typically occurring in late April to early May, depending on water temperatures and the timing of the spawning run.

Techniques for Sturgeon

Fishing for lake sturgeon is not for the faint of heart. These fish are not only massive but also known for their strong, determined fight. Anglers typically use heavy-duty tackle and specific techniques to target sturgeon, given their size and strength. Here’s a guide to some of the techniques and gear you’ll need:

• Gear: Sturgeon are big fish, so you’ll need strong rods, reels, and line to handle them. A 7 to 10-foot medium-heavy or heavy action rod is recommended, with a baitcasting reel or a conventional reel that can hold at least 200 yards of 80-pound test braided line. Because of the rough terrain and obstacles like submerged rocks, anglers often use abrasion-resistant 12-18” leaders made of heavy fluorocarbon. Two- to 4-oz. no-roll sinkers keep the bait from rolling with the current. At the tip, a 5/0 circle hook is recommended.
• Bait: Sturgeon are bottom feeders, so they are typically caught using bait that sinks to the riverbed. Common bait choices include worms, minnows, nightcrawlers, and chunks of cut bait such as suckers or shad. Many anglers also use a sturgeon-specific rig, such as a circle hook paired with a weight, to keep the bait stationary on the riverbed.
• Fishing Methods: Anglers typically fish for sturgeon from a boat, anchoring in a prime location where sturgeon are likely to pass through. River channels with slow-moving water, deep holes, or eddies are good places to set up. Once anchored, anglers drop their baits to the bottom and wait for a bite. When a sturgeon strikes, anglers must let the fish take the bait before setting the hook. The fight can be long and arduous, as sturgeon tend to make strong runs and can be difficult to reel in.
• Catch and Release: Given the rarity and importance of sturgeon populations, many fisheries have adopted a catch-and-release policy for sturgeon. While some places may allow for limited harvesting, conservation of these magnificent fish is key to maintaining their populations for future generations. Anglers should handle sturgeon with care, using appropriate tools like a rubberized landing net and barbless hooks to minimize injury to the fish.

Other Places to Fish for Lake Sturgeon

While the Rainy River offers one of the best opportunities for sturgeon fishing in the spring, there are other prime locations across North America where anglers can target Lake Sturgeon. Here are a few notable spots:

• Lake of the Woods (Minnesota and Canada): This massive, border-spanning lake is one of the most famous sturgeon fisheries in North America. Sturgeon are abundant in both the U.S. and Canadian portions of the lake, with anglers targeting them in deeper water during the spring and summer months.
• Mississippi River (Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa): The Mississippi River is home to a robust population of sturgeon, especially in the upper reaches of the river near Wisconsin and Minnesota. The fish are typically found in deep pools and channels where the current is slower.
• Detroit River (Michigan): The Detroit River, which connects Lake Erie to Lake St. Clair, is another excellent spot for sturgeon fishing. The river is home to a significant population of sturgeon, and efforts to restore their numbers have been successful in recent decades.
• St. Lawrence River (New York and Canada): The St. Lawrence River, which flows from Lake Ontario into the Atlantic Ocean, is also home to a significant population of sturgeon. Anglers can fish for them in both the river and its tributaries during the spring and early summer.
• Lake Michigan: Parts of Lake Michigan, particularly near the river mouths and the bay areas, offer opportunities to fish for sturgeon. These fish tend to congregate in deeper, colder waters during the summer and move to the shallows to spawn in the spring.

Make History

Fishing for lake sturgeon on the Rainy River in the spring is an unforgettable experience for anglers. The historical significance of this species, combined with the thrill of landing one of these giant fish, makes it a bucket-list activity for many. By understanding the techniques, gear, and conservation efforts involved, anglers can enjoy the challenge of sturgeon fishing while contributing to the preservation of these ancient fish for future generations. Whether on the Rainy River or other sturgeon-rich waters across North America, the opportunity to catch a sturgeon remains a testament to the resilience of this incredible species. For more information on sturgeon fishing, regulations, seasons, and accommodations on the Minnesota/Canada border, visit LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

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