Taking on a sturgeon is one of the biggest challenges in freshwater fishing. These prehistoric fish are incredibly strong and require a very specific approach. Learning how to catch sturgeon fish involves patience, the right bait, and gear that won’t fail you. We’ve spent years perfecting these techniques on local rivers.
Taking on this challenge is an incredible adventure, and Pokey’s Tackle Shop is here to help you get started.
The Right Gear: Your Sturgeon Fishing Setup
Sturgeon are incredibly powerful, so heavy-duty sturgeon fishing gear is not just a good idea—it’s a must. You need equipment that can handle a long, tough fight.
Rod and Reel
You will need a heavy-power rod that is between 7 and 9 feet long. This gives you the backbone needed to fight a big fish. Pair it with a large baitcasting or spinning reel that can hold a lot of line.
Line and Leader
A strong braided main line, between 65 and 100-pound test, is perfect because it has no stretch. For your leader, use a tough monofilament or fluorocarbon to protect against sharp rocks on the river bottom.
Having the right setup is the first step to success, and you can find all the necessary fishing products in our shop.
The Best Rigs and Bait for Sturgeon
Sturgeon are bottom-feeders, which means they eat off the riverbed. Your rig and bait need to be presented right where they are looking for food.
The Sliding Sinker Rig
This is the most common and effective sturgeon fishing rig. It’s made of a heavy sliding weight (from 3 to 8 ounces), a plastic bead, and a strong swivel. A leader is then tied to the swivel with a sharp, strong hook (from size 5/0 to 8/0).
Sturgeon use their amazing sense of smell to find food. This means smelly baits work best. Here are some top choices:
- A big bunch of nightcrawlers or dew worms on the hook.
- Fish eggs, like salmon roe, tied in small mesh bags.
- Cut-up pieces of oily fish like suckers or goldeye.
While bait is the main way to go, some anglers like to add extra attractants. You can check out various lures that can add a bit of flash or vibration to your setup.
Finding and Fishing for These River Giants
Here’s how to find and fish for these river giants:
You can always check out the new products of 2025 for the latest in heavy-duty tackle.
The Fight and How to Handle a Sturgeon Safely
Hooking a sturgeon is just the beginning. The fight can last a long time, with powerful runs that pull a lot of line from your reel. Be patient and let your rod and the reel’s drag do most of the work.
It is very important to know how to handle sturgeon safely to protect the fish.
- Always try to keep the fish in the water as much as possible.
- If you must land it for a photo, use a cradle or tarp, never a rope.
- Support its full body and never hold it by the gills or tail.
- Let it go quickly so it can swim away strong.
An Unforgettable Experience
Catching a sturgeon is a big challenge, but the reward is a memory that will last a lifetime. Learning how to catch sturgeon fish is one of the most exciting journeys in freshwater angling.
If you have any more questions, feel free to stop by the shop for expert advice.
About the Authors: Greg and Gord Prokopetz aren’t just shop owners; they’re seasoned anglers who have spent decades on Saskatchewan’s rivers. They founded Pokey’s with a passion for tackling the toughest fish, and the sturgeon is one of their favorites. The tips in this guide come from their years of personal experience.
