White Sturgeon
Acipenser transmontanus
North America's largest freshwater fish, the white sturgeon is an ancient, armoured giant of the Fraser and Columbia systems that can exceed six metres and live over a century. Populations are of serious conservation concern, so retention is prohibited everywhere in B.C. — every fishery is strictly catch-and-release, and many waters are fully closed.
Deep holes and slow runs of large rivers; a long-lived, protected bottom feeder — no retention anywhere in B.C.
How to Catch White Sturgeon
Whether you're new to targeting White Sturgeon or refining your approach, success starts with matching your tactics to where the fish lives. White Sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) is typically found in river water and lake water, so concentrate your effort where those conditions line up. Mature White Sturgeon average around 72 inches, which helps you choose the right line, lure size, and tackle for the fight.
Where to Find White Sturgeon in the USA & Canada
White Sturgeon is recorded across a range of North American waters, including spots in British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Browse the linked water guides below to see the specific lakes, rivers, and coastal waters where anglers report catching White Sturgeon, then plan a trip around the water closest to you.
White Sturgeon Fishing Regulations & Limits
Fishing rules for White Sturgeon vary by state and province. Before you head out, check the daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons that apply in your area. When FishFinder has matching records, the regulations link below takes you to the rules hub. Following local limits keeps White Sturgeon populations healthy for future seasons.
Related Water Guides for White Sturgeon
Explore these FishFinder water guides for places where White Sturgeon is recorded:
- Columbia River — White Sturgeon fishing water
- Fraser River — White Sturgeon fishing water
- Nechako River — White Sturgeon fishing water
- Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta — White Sturgeon fishing water
- Sacramento River — White Sturgeon fishing water
- C.J. Strike Reservoir — White Sturgeon fishing water
- Brownlee Reservoir — White Sturgeon fishing water
- Snake River (Hells Canyon) — White Sturgeon fishing water
- Willamette River — White Sturgeon fishing water
- Snake River (Washington) — White Sturgeon fishing water
White Sturgeon Regulations
Review current FishFinder regulation records before targeting White Sturgeon:
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water is best for catching White Sturgeon?
White Sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) is typically found in river water and lake water. Focus your effort where those conditions line up to improve your chances.
How big does White Sturgeon get?
Mature White Sturgeon average around 72 inches, though individual fish can run larger. Matching your line, lure size, and tackle to that range makes for a better fight and landing rate.
Where can I catch White Sturgeon in the USA and Canada?
White Sturgeon is reported across North American waters, including spots in British Columbia, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Check the locations listed on this page to find the lakes, rivers, and coastal waters closest to you.
Do I need a fishing license to catch White Sturgeon?
A valid fishing license is required in most US states and Canadian provinces. Daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons for White Sturgeon vary by region, so review the regulations on this page and with your local wildlife authority before heading out.