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Lake Sturgeon

Lake Sturgeon

Lake sturgeon are Minnesota's largest fish, capable of reaching over 100 pounds and 6. 6 feet in length.

Sometimes called 'living dinosaurs of the fish world,' these ancient fish have cartilaginous skeletons and distinctive rows of sharp, bony plates called scutes along their bodies.

Scientific Name: Acipenser fulvescens

Also known as living dinosaurs of the fish world

Physical Characteristics:
  • Lake sturgeon feature flattened, spade-like heads with four barbels (whiskers) near their sucker-like mouths, which they use to locate food in dark waters.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in Lake of the Woods, Lake Superior, and rivers including the Rainy, St.
  • Croix, St.
  • Louis, Kettle, Red River of the North, Mississippi, Otter Tail, Littlefork, and Bigfork rivers.

Key Locations

  • Lake of the Woods, Lake Superior, Rainy River, St.
  • Croix River, St.
  • Louis River, Kettle River, Red River of the North, Mississippi River, Otter Tail River, Littlefork River, Bigfork River, Four Mile Bay area, Rainy River from Four Mile Bay to Birchdale Falls, Mississippi River below Lock and Dam No. 3 (Red Wing), Otter Tail Lake.

Specific Spots

  • Lake sturgeon are bottom feeders that forage in sandy, gravelly, and muddy areas.
  • Target deep holes and pools, and deep pools and channels.
  • The Rainy River offers 40 miles of prime habitat.

Lake Sturgeon FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Lake Sturgeon in Minnesota?

Bait with multiple nightcrawlers, often combined with minnows (emerald shiners) or dead shad - anything with strong scent works. Some anglers add rotten chicken or pork for extra attraction.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Sturgeon in Minnesota?

Lake sturgeon fishing seasons vary by water type in Minnesota. On Canada-Minnesota border waters (Lake of the Woods, Rainy River), harvest seasons run April 24-May 7 and July 1-September 30, with catch-and-release seasons May 8-15 and October 1-April 23. The season is completely closed May 16-June 30.

How do you catch Lake Sturgeon in Minnesota?

Keep lines tight and watch for subtle rod tip jiggles as sturgeon mouth the bait - don't expect dramatic runs. Set the hook quickly once you feel the fish. Use electronics to locate fish before setting up.

What do Lake Sturgeon eat?

Their diet consists primarily of aquatic macroinvertebrates, freshwater mussels, snails, crustaceans, crayfish, insect larvae, leeches, and small fish - they prefer fresh food and won't eat decomposing organisms.

Where do Lake Sturgeon live in Minnesota?

Found in Lake of the Woods, Lake Superior, and rivers including the Rainy, St. Croix, St. Louis, Kettle, Red River of the North, Mississippi, Otter Tail, Littlefork, and Bigfork rivers.

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