Best Bait for White Sturgeon in Spring – Proven Tips & Techniques
Best Bait for White Sturgeon in Spring – A Complete Angler’s Guide
White sturgeon are one of the largest freshwater fish in North America, known for their size, strength, and thrilling fights. Spring is one of the best times to target sturgeon, as they become more active due to rising water temperatures and increased feeding before spawning.
To increase your chances of hooking a trophy white sturgeon, using the right bait and fishing techniques is crucial. In this guide, we’ll cover the best bait for white sturgeon in spring, expert fishing tips, and gear recommendations.
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Why Spring is Prime Sturgeon Season
Spring is an excellent time to fish for white sturgeon because:
✔️ Pre-spawn feeding behavior makes them more aggressive.
✔️ Increased water flow in rivers helps distribute natural bait sources.
✔️ Warmer temperatures stimulate activity after winter sluggishness.
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Top Baits for White Sturgeon in Spring
Sturgeon are bottom feeders that rely heavily on scent to locate food. The best bait choices are oily, strong-smelling, and natural to their diet.
1. Lamprey Eel – The Ultimate Sturgeon Bait
✅ Why it Works:
- A natural food source for sturgeon.
- High oil content and strong scent attract fish from a distance.
- Tough skin makes it harder for smaller fish to steal the bait.
💡 Pro Tip:
- Cut the eel into 2-3 inch chunks and use a circle hook to secure it.
- Best used in deep holes and strong currents where sturgeon actively feed.
2. Shrimp – A Reliable and Effective Option
✅ Why it Works:
- Easy to find and use.
- Emits a natural scent trail that attracts sturgeon.
- Effective in both deep and shallow water.
💡 Pro Tip:
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp and remove the shell for better scent dispersion.
- Combine with fish oil or scent attractants for maximum effectiveness.
3. Squid – A Durable & Scented Bait
✅ Why it Works:
- Strong scent and high oil content attract sturgeon from far away.
- Tough texture keeps it on the hook longer than softer baits.
- Tentacles provide a natural movement in the water.
💡 Pro Tip:
- Use whole squid or cut into strips for best results.
- Soak in fish oil or garlic scent for extra attraction.
4. Herring – A Classic Sturgeon Bait
✅ Why it Works:
- One of the most common natural food sources for sturgeon.
- High oil content provides a strong scent trail.
- Can be used whole or cut into chunks.
💡 Pro Tip:
- Use fresh or brined herring for the best scent and durability.
- Fish in slow-moving water where sturgeon actively scavenge.
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Best Fishing Techniques for White Sturgeon
Even with the right bait, knowing how and where to fish is crucial for success.
1. Use Heavy-Duty Gear
Sturgeon can grow over 12 feet long and weigh 1,000+ pounds, so using the right tackle is essential.
✅ Recommended Gear:
- Rod: Heavy-action sturgeon rod (rated for 50-100 lb test).
- Reel: Large baitcasting or spinning reel with a smooth drag system.
- Line: 80-100 lb braided mainline with a 150 lb leader.
2. Fish in Deep, Slow-Moving Water
White sturgeon prefer deep pools, estuaries, and river bends where food naturally collects.
✅ Best Locations:
- Deep holes (20-80 feet) near drop-offs.
- Dams and spillways with high food concentrations.
- Muddy or sandy bottoms where sturgeon forage for food.
3. Use a Sliding Sinker Rig
A sliding sinker rig allows the bait to move naturally with the current, increasing its appeal.
✅ How to Set Up a Sturgeon Rig:
- Attach a heavy sliding sinker (8-16 oz) to your main line.
- Use a swivel to prevent line twisting.
- Tie a 12-24” leader with a 10/0 or 12/0 circle hook.
- Hook the bait securely, ensuring it stays intact.
💡 Pro Tip:
- Set your drag loose so the sturgeon doesn’t feel resistance when taking the bait.
4. Be Patient & Set the Hook Properly
✅ Sturgeon are known for:
✔️ Slow, cautious bites before committing to the bait.
✔️ Powerful runs once hooked—expect a long fight.
💡 Pro Tips:
- Don’t set the hook immediately—wait for the fish to fully commit.
- Use slow, steady pressure to wear the fish out.
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FAQs About White Sturgeon Fishing
What is the best time of day to fish for white sturgeon?
✔️ Early morning and late afternoon are the most productive times.
Do I need a fishing license to catch white sturgeon?
✔️ Yes, a fishing license and sturgeon endorsement are required in most areas.
Is it legal to keep white sturgeon?
✔️ In most regions, white sturgeon are catch-and-release only due to conservation efforts. Always check local regulations.
How big do white sturgeon get?
✔️ White sturgeon can grow over 12 feet long and weigh more than 1,000 pounds!
What is the best weather for sturgeon fishing?
✔️ Overcast days with moderate water flow are ideal. Avoid strong currents or extremely muddy water.
Conclusion: Maximize Your Success This Spring
Spring is one of the best seasons to catch trophy white sturgeon, and using the right bait and techniques can make all the difference.
Best Baits for White Sturgeon in Spring:
✔️ Lamprey eel – Strong scent and natural attraction.
✔️ Shrimp – Easy to use and highly effective.
✔️ Squid – Long-lasting bait with high scent dispersion.
✔️ Herring – A classic choice for sturgeon fishing.
By fishing in deep, slow-moving water, using heavy-duty gear, and mastering the sliding sinker rig, you can increase your chances of landing a massive sturgeon this spring.
👉 What’s your favorite bait for white sturgeon? Let us know in the comments!
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