For the past several years a group of dedicated people have been working hard to learn more about the Fraser Rivers White Sturgeon. A group of volunteers have been assembled lead by Rick Hansen (The Man in Motion). Scientists, tackle shop owners, First Nations, angling guides, and others who care about these magnificent animals have all dedicated time to help gather more information about the Fraser Rivers Sturgeon population. This data will help scientists determine whether the population is increasing or decreasing and what may be effecting it's survival.

The Fraser River Sturgeon Conservation Society was formed in 1997 , it's official launch took place in October of 98 in Mission, B.C. Last year was the first Sturgeon tagging day, the society volunteers managed to hook and tag over 80 fish in two day's. This year Tagging day was held in the lower Fraser, not as many fish were tagged but the media response and volunteer's were out in full force.

Rick and society directors have been working hard for the past year trying to raise awareness and funds so that the tagging of Sturgeon could continue. It's not a cheap endeavor, the equipment needed costs thousands of dollars. The Pit tags which are inserted under the sturgeon skin cost $8 us each and the tag readers are $575.00 us. These expensive tags are needed to ensure the tags stay with the fish for years to come. In the past, the wire tags were used but they don't stay with the fish as long. Thanks to Fisheries Renewal ($25,000) The Vancouver Foundation ($25,000), Canadian Sportsman Show ($10,000) these expensive Pit tags and scanners were purchased and will be distributed to volunteers in the field. Much more funds are still needed as the Sturgeon Society would like to equip more boats and purchase more tags.

The Fraser River White Sturgeon has outlived the dinosaurs and survived two ice ages. The biggest challenges still lies ahead, with increased angling pressure, gravel extraction and the growing need for commercial industry on the rivers edge. Sturgeon are a magnificent animal that has survived the unbelievable odds stacked against them. It's now time that we as a community do what we can to help these incredible animals survive another million years.

If you would like more information on the Fraser River Sturgeon Society or would like to contribute to the conservation fund, you can call: 604-271-6332 or write to:
Fraser River Conservation Society
3551 Moncton Street,
Richmond, B.C.
V7E 3A3

Catch & Release Tips for Sturgeon

Sturgeon are an incredibly strong fish, having the appropriate equipment to catch these fish is very important for a great experience and a quick and harmless release. Rods vary in length, the most important factor is rod strength. Your rod's line rating should be no less than 20 - 50 lb., this will ensure you have the back bone to land these fish as quickly as possible. Many large fish will take half hour or more to land using the right equipment, using a weak rod can really take it's toll on the angler and the fish. Reels should have low gear ratio such as 3.8 to 1 or 4.3 to 1, any higher and the reel will not have the strength to reel in a large fish. I like the Penn 330 with 100lb Tuffline or a Penn 320 with 80 LB test. Leader's should be one line size down from the mainline. Ex: 100lb main- 80 lb leader, 80 lb main - 60 lb leader.( Remember Barbless Hook Only)

One of the most critical times during a battle with a large sturgeon is when it's beside the boat and ready to land. Never try to pick a large Sturgeon up out of the water, you can easily damage internal organs. The recommended method is to keep the fish on the hook and rod, pull up anchor or release your buoy and idle the fish to shore by keeping it behind the boat. Never tie a rope around the tail or through it's gills and drag it to shore, it will surely harm the fish. Once on shore try not to take the fish from the water, great photo's can be taken while the fish is in 8 to 12 inch of water.

We have all made mistakes trying to learn the least harmful manner in which to handle this beautiful fish. Hopefully you can learn from our mistakes.

If you have any questions regarding Sturgeon tackle or catch & release practices please feel free to call us at (604) 671-FISH or Email us at

You can e-mail your comments to Vic @ sts@guidebc.com

Tight lines and hope to see on the water
Vic Carrao
STS Guiding Service
www.guidebc.com

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