Sturgeon are the largest freshwater species Washington anglers are likely to encounter. This prehistoric fish is available in the Columbia and Willapa Rivers year-round. Both green and white sturgeon are caught locally, but whites are the most common and certainly the largest, sometimes measuring over eight feet and weighing several hundred pounds.
Sturgeon feed on the bottom, cruising along and picking up tasty morsels with their sucker-like mouth. Anglers usually fish for them with smelt, shrimp and other baits anchored on bottom. Hooked sturgeon, especially the larger ones, may jump completely out of the water, providing a spectacular show for anglers or anyone who happens by at the right time! Since sturgeon must be between 42 and 60 inches to keep, lots get caught and thrown back making it an exciting day. There’s nothing like seeing the twinkle in the eye of a youngster who pulls in a fish taller than she is!
A sturgeon fishing trip in the Columbia or Willapa Rivers is perfect for those who might be concerned about sea-sickness. Sturgeon and salmon trips start at 5am for 8 hours or until the boat limits.
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