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Atlantic Sturgeon

Atlantic Sturgeon

Atlantic Sturgeon are ancient "living fossils" that represent the largest fish species in New Jersey's freshwater systems.

These prehistoric fish are federally listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act as of April 6, 2012, making them completely off-limits to anglers.

Scientific Name: Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Capable of reaching 14 feet in length and weighing up to 811 pounds, though most caught today weigh under 200 pounds.
  • These bottom-feeders use their barbels (whisker-like sensory organs) and protractile mouths to vacuum the substrate.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • The species is anadromous, spending most of their lives in marine waters but returning to freshwater rivers to spawn.
  • They inhabit shallow waters less than 20 meters deep over sand and gravel substrates.

Key Locations

  • Delaware and Hudson Rivers, Delaware Bay, Raritan Bay, Atlantic Ocean near shore, Island Beach State Park, Sandy Hook, Raritan Bay near the ammo pier to Monmouth Cove, Manasquan, Tin Can grounds, Bordentown on the Delaware River.

Specific Spots

  • Bottom-dwelling areas with sand and gravel substrates.

Atlantic Sturgeon FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

When is the best time to fish for Atlantic Sturgeon in New Jersey?

Peak activity periods when sightings are most likely occur during their spawning migration from mid-May through the end of July, but this is precisely when they are most vulnerable and require absolute protection. Spawning occurs between April and May in the mid-Atlantic region.

How do you catch Atlantic Sturgeon in New Jersey?

Any angler who accidentally catches an Atlantic Sturgeon must release it immediately and unharmed, without removing it from the water or attempting to handle it.

What do Atlantic Sturgeon eat?

Juveniles eating bottom-dwelling crustaceans and insects, while adults consume insects, snails, marine worms, crustaceans, small fish, and in some systems like Maine's Saco River, primarily American Sand Lance.

Where do Atlantic Sturgeon live in New Jersey?

The species is anadromous, spending most of their lives in marine waters but returning to freshwater rivers to spawn. They inhabit shallow waters less than 20 meters deep over sand and gravel substrates.

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