The Great White Sturgeon, Fraser River, British Columbia, V1C4

The Great White Sturgeon

This post is from SFBoater Trophy Catch Jackpot I. Got a trophy catch? Get paid for your fish stories

The Great White Sturgeon

By Dave British Columbia

The story started when a couple of my buddies asked about a recent Sturgeon fishing trip I took on thr Fraser River. I live just outside of Vancouver, Canada, and the Fraser river runs from the interior of BC to the Ocean. The Fraser has a great Salmon run, and also holds the very prehistoric looking bottom dweller, the white sturgeon.

The guys were all ethusiastic about trying Sturgeon fishing,none of them had ever caught anything like these fish. The Sturgeon runs in size from baby 30 pounders to giants that are 12 feet and over 1200 pounds.

Fighting the Great White SturgeonThe Sturgeon is caught on the same kind of rod and reel that you would use for Marlin. They are called Mud Marlin locally because of the muddy river, and their tendency to leap right out of the water.

They may be bottom dwellers, but they put up an incredible fight. The method of catching the sturgeon is simple, a baited single hook on a leader with a one pound weight to keep it place on the bottom, and wait for the action to start.

These fish grow to be very old , no one actually knows how old, but the larger fish pictured which is 350 pounds and about 6 feet would be about 90 years old. This a catch and release fishery as the White Sturgeon is a protected species. I mean what would you do with 350 lbs of Sturgeon anyway?

A good day was had by all, we fished a half day for Salmon and had some great fish for th BBQ. The other half of the day we caught four Sturgeon , so everyone had a chance to fight one of these great fish.

If you ever in BC check out the fishery, you have an absolute riot catching this prehistoric fish.

The Other Great White Sturgeon

Originally posted 2008-08-02 15:33:37. Republished by Old Post Promoter

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2 7ft Sturgeon on Back to Back Casts

In the San Francisco Chronicle today was an outdoors article about a Cal grad student that needed to catch a sturgeon as research for an article she was writing...  She got more than you could ever hope for with the help of Keith Fraser. Grad student will have a whopper of a fish story

It was a bright, sunny blue sky day, and with no wind, the bay was flat and glassy calm. "Perfect," Fraser said. The crew boarded at 2:40 p.m., Fraser fired up the engine, and they cruised up San Pablo Bay to the northern apex of the Sturgeon Triangle, just east of the pumphouse. With the depth finder, Fraser found 11 feet of water, his magic spot, and dropped the anchor.

From the recent rains, the water was chocolate brown, and with the outgoing tide sweeping past the boat, conditions appeared perfect. "These are the kind of conditions that a sturgeon addict would dream about," Fraser said.

[...]

Suddenly, the sturgeon emerged on the surface: It was 7 feet long and weighed an estimated 150 to 160 pounds. Its belly was swollen, full of sturgeon eggs.

"Oh my God," Wollan said. She was otherwise speechless, in shock.

Many anglers fish a lifetime in hopes of hooking a 100-pound sturgeon, and here she had landed one on her first bite.

Fraser smiled, knowing he had just inducted a new member into the 100-Pound Club. He reached overboard, grabbed the hook with a pair of pliers, and dislodged it from the round, vacuum-cleaner-like mouth of the sturgeon. In the next second, the big fish swam away and disappeared into the darkness.

Originally posted 2008-01-20 12:08:15. Republished by Old Post Promoter

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How to Land a Prize Sturgeon

SturgeonSturgeon are among the most sought after species of fish in the world and they require a great deal of skill to land. People spend their entire lives perfecting the art of landing a sturgeon. However, there are some easy tips that you can use to increase your chances of catching that prize sturgeon. Above all, patience is key, but these tips will get you started in the right direction.The good news is, sturgeon are a very aggressive fish and if you're using the right combination of bait, technique and tools, your chances of landing one are actually pretty good. The key is knowing where, when and how in order to get the best results.

River or Lake Fishing

Sturgeon can be found in most rivers on the West Coast, but they won't be floating along the sides. They are definitely bottom feeders, so you'll either need to get out there on a boat, or really be able to cast well. We recommend using a bell sinker and pretty much any type of bait you can get your hands on. They're not very picky when they are hungry and you can do well with simple bait like bugs, or you can get fancy and use crayfish. It's up to you, but if you go at the right time of the day, you can really increase your chances of getting the big one.

You'll also be able to find some sturgeon in lakes, especially if they are fed by local rivers. Once again, you're going to have to go deep to find sturgeon. We recommend dropping anchor in the deepest part of the lake you can find and setting up shop there for a few hours. For lake fishing, we recommend putting some salmon eggs in a small, netted bag. Make sure that it is tightly tied off and attach it to your line. Use a good sinker and sit back to wait for the chomps. The key is to make the bait look like a spawn bag, and the netting really helps with that.

Finding the Right Time of Day

We mentioned that the key is finding the right time of the day. If you're going fishing in the afternoon, the sturgeon will definitely be found at the bottom of the lake or river and you'll need a good deal of patience to get one. By evening, they'll start to fan out a bit and they'll be a little bit hungrier.

If you don't have a boat or you just want to fish from shore, late evening or early morning will be your best time to land a sturgeon. They go more towards the shallows at these times and they will be hungry. Use the bait mentioned above for river fishing and you should be able to land at least one. During these times, you may actually be able to spot one if the waters are shallow enough, so keep your eyes peeled and keep trying.

Photo Credits: 1

Originally posted 2008-07-16 05:20:06. Republished by Old Post Promoter

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Lake Cuyamaca, Julian, CA

Lake Cuyamaca is located near: Julian, CA

Phone: (760) 765-0515

Is boating allowed?

Yes, this is a very boat friendly lake.

Is there a boat ramp?

Yes, they do have a launch on site. Please note that there is a day fee for use.

What you need to know about the lake:

Lake Cuyamaca is easily one of the most enjoyable places to visit in this area. We had a great time during our trip here and found everything to be just what you would expect from a top of the line resort, but with that family friendly atmosphere. The marina was well stocked, the bait shop was perfect and considering that you can catch some very rare fish while you're here, it was well worth trip. We found their rental rates to be reasonable and they are also very friendly to those that wish to bring their own boats. Please note however, that there are some special rules for boaters, which we've mentioned below.

Is camping allowed?

Absolutely. There are numerous places to camp here, including primitive camp sites, RV hookups and other spots. We found everything to be very well maintained and suitable for even kids.

What kind of fish will I find here?

This is considered to be the spot for anglers. You'll be able to find plenty of trout, a few bass, the usual selection of crappie and bluegill and you may even spot a catfish or two while you're here. This biggest story however is their decision to stock sturgeon in the lake a few years ago - and this is by far one of the best places to catch a sturgeon in the area.

Are there any regulations I need to know about:

Yes. This area does have a problem with the Quagga Mussels. This means that all boats must be decontaminated once they leave the water. If you are bringing your own boat, you must pay the $10 fee to have the process completed before you will be allowed to leave. Please note that this fee is in addition to their launch fee.

If you will be operating a boat, you must have a valid California license. For those bringing their own boats, they must be registered in the state of California and must be operated according to state laws.


View Larger Map

Fees:

Lake Management States:

Fishing permits are $6.00 for adults and $3.50 for kids.

One day licenses for $12.10 and annual licenses for $37.30. Fishing Rod and Reel rental $10.00 entire day with $30.00 CASH deposit.

Boat rentals are available. Motorboat rentals are $45.00 for the entire day or $35.00 after 1:00 PM. Rowboats are $15.00 all day or $12.00 after 1:00 PM. Pontoon Boat is $150.00 entire day.

Paddle Boats: $15 an hour in summer only

RV Campsites with hookups are $25.00. RV Campsites without hookups are $18.00. Group RV site (8 spaces) $200.00. Tent Campsites are $18.00. Non-angler access is $6.00 per car, payable only if there are no anglers in party.

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Phone: 925.684.2166

Mariner Cove Marina, Bethel Park, CA

Boat launch? Yes, the facility does have a boat launch

Berth Fees:

Please call for more information.

Average water depth? Not listed. Please contact the marina for information about current depths before you arrive.

Marine standby channel? At this time the marina is not accessible by radio.

Are there any guest facilities?

Yes, the marina supplies guests with rental docks complete with electric. However, slips are not available at this time.

Is there a pump out station?

Yes, the marina does have a pump out station on site.

Is there a fuel dock?

Yes, the marina offers its customers use of their fuel dock with both diesel and regular fuel.

Is there as store on site or a restaurant?

No, the marina does not have either option at this time. However, there are several within easy walking distance.

What other kind of services are available?

The marina supplies its customers with restrooms, showers and laundry facilities. They also supply ice, which is pretty uncommon among marinas in the area.

Can you camp there?

The marina actually offers cabin rentals for those who will be staying over night. We've included information on these rentals below. It's a step above camping outside and the facilities are actually quite nice.

What you need to know:

The staff at this marina is incredibly friendly and accommodating. Whether you are just passing through or you plan to rent long term, you'll find them a pleasure to work with. Their location is just about perfect and this marina is a favorite among locals.

Is fishing allowed?

Yes, the marina is currently working on increasing their fishing options. Please contact them for more information. This location on the Delta is particularly rich in fish and you should be able to catch salmon, sturgeon, trout and bass without any trouble. If you are fishing on your boat or off the pier, please remember that you will need a California fishing license. Limits per species of fish may also apply. Please check with the marina for more information.

Full List of Services available:

141 Covered Berths ~ monthly rates:

30 AMP Shore Power / Dual 30 AMP Power on Larger Berths

Excellent parking with close access to your boat

Free pumpout

Laundry Facilities

Clean Restrooms and Showers

Security Gates

Hydrolift for jet skis with secure storage at $45/month

Hydrolift for boats up to 25'

Propane

Camping Facilities?

Yes, the marina has extensive facilities for guests, including the following cabins that include:

TV and DVD Player

Dish Network

1 Full Size Bed

3 Bunk Beds

Hot and Cold Water Shower

Toilet

Stove Top Range

Small Refrigerator

Microwave

Coffee Maker & Toaster

Barbeque

Please contact the number above for rates on their cabin packages.

How to Get There:


View Larger Map

Mariner Cove Marina is located at the end of Taylor Road on Bethel Island.

When you arrive on Bethel Island, cross over the bridge and take the first left turn onto Taylor Road. Follow the road to the end until you reach Mariner Cove Marina.

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President’s Day on the Bay

Last Sunday (ok the day before President's Day) a few friends and I arranged a day cruise/fishing trip on the bay.  We didn't have a planned itinerary, but I think you will see the day turned out pretty nice.

It started for me at 8:30am leaving my house, picking up the boat from storage, gassing the boat, and launching at Coyote Point.  The morning was incredible.  Completely glass on the water with a thin fog... it was in the upper 40's at the time.  I was on the water by 9:45am.

Glass On the Bay 1

Glass on the Bay 2Glass on the Bay 3

Next stop, the Berkley Marnia.  My friend was unable to find the boat launch and decided he could walk down the rocks beside the fishing pier.  Needless to say I did not think it was a good idea, but relented.  He proceeded to slip (thankfully not hurting himself), but eventually made it into the boat...  Later you will see his haste will come back to haunt him.  He had stopped by the bait shop and picked up a 1/4 pound of grass shrimp so we decided to head to San Pablo Bay and try our hand at sturgeon fishing.  Neither of us has an experience. 

On the way to San Pablo Bay the wind picked up a little (maybe 5-7 mph).  The thing about the grass shrimp that we had is that they are tiny and the hooks on the sturgeon rigs are huge.  Not entirely sure we hooked the shrimp up correctly, but here is a photo of our handy work...

Grass Shimp on Sturgeon Hook

We positioned ourselves into a lineup of boats near China Camp in about 10 ft of water (we figured they all looked like they knew what they were doing), but we didn't get any bites (from what we could tell of the boats around us neither did they).  It was however an incredible day out on the water and we were enjoying ourselves.

San Pablo Bay

At 1:30pm we decided we had had enough fishing and decided to pick a few other friends that were having lunch at Sam's in Tiburon.  We picked them up and did a quick tour around Alcatraz Island.  At this point it was a little rough as the wind had picked up to about 10-12mph.  On the way back to Tiburon we noticed a beach on Angle Island that look inviting and decided to beach the boat for a couple of minutes.  Where we got some nice photos.

Angel Island Beach

Angel Island SF Background

Angel Island Beach 2Angel Island On BeachAngel Island San FraciscoAngel Island Beach 4

As incredible as the views on and around Angel Island were I was astounded at the amount of trash.  Here is just one example...

Angel Island Black Cat

After almost getting stuck by the outgoing tide we headed back to Tiburon to drop of my friends.  While there we docked at Sam's and were contemplating eating there.  However it was a 2 hour wait.  So we went next door to Alioto's and had a very nice meal.  Outstanding bruschetta and pizza. 

Heading back to drop of my other friend at the Berkley marina rocks the weather was still a little rough.  But it was an incredible day.

Incredible Day

Unfortunately for my friend when he departed the boat onto the rocks he slipped and fell into the water.  Cell phone ruined, but pride intact we parted ways.  I headed back to Coyote Point and while I don't have any pictures the sunset over and then into the fog it was spectacular in oranges and pinks. 

The nice thing about Coyote point is the boat wash...  I was able to flush my engine of the salt water and clean my boat of the salt spray.  I returned the boat to storage and tired, but content I headed for home.

President’s Day on The Bay (Part 2)

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