Fishing Report | Fraser River Sturgeon

Winter sturgeon fishing on the Fraser can be one of the best times of year to catch giants and "giants in training".

Contrary to popular belief, it isn't slower, just colder.

We've had winter trips where our guests just wanted to stop fishing because their arms were sore from landing fish!

Although the larger fish go into a state of semi-hibernation, they won't pass up the opportunity for an easy snack. The smaller fish, which haven't typically gorged on salmon during the summer and fall months, are more migratory and looking for a meal.

The bigger fish also tend to hunker down in the deeper holes, which hold food and provide a darker environment. During the winter months, the Big Muddy isn't always that muddy, making the deeper water a more comfortable refuge from the bright sun of the day.

For tackle, we recommend using small, less intrusive hooks (sizes 4/0 to 6/0), lighter leader, and appropriately sized bait (roe is always a good choice). If you're targeting juvenile sturgeon, you may want to try circle hooks. These smaller fish have been known to lie on their food, which can lead to a belly hookset with regular octopus or J-hooks. By using a circle hook, you have a much lower chance of foul hooking. And, of course, make sure that the barb is properly pinched.

Patience is also key during winter sturgeon outings. The fish can be less aggressive and often very sensitive to the bait presentation, which is where circle hooks are effective. The fish won't feel the prick of the hook point, and will often gently suck the bait in and just sit there or move away ever so slightly. You may see the tip make a slight dip down, requiring a good reel down to set the circle hook.

This is not to say that there aren't giants where the smaller fish are hanging out. We've had many encounters with 8-footers while targeting juveniles for tagging. You think you've got a dink pecking at your line, only to have a beast racing away when you set the hook - good times!

Give us a call at 604-835-FISH (3474), email info@rivertitan.ca, or follow this link to get more information about a sturgeon fishing adventure!

And you don't need a boat to enjoy this fishery either. Shore fishing on the Fraser River is easily accessible, super relaxing, and can also be a great family activity. Chuck out a couple of rods, play on the beach, and see what happens. Check out our blog post on FRASER RIVER STURGEON FISHING FROM SHORE for all sorts of tips tricks and a few spots to check out.

If you would like to learn more about gear and technique, drop into either store and the gang will be happy to share their knowledge. We've also got all of the gear specific to shore fishing for sturgeon to get you started.

About Fraser River Sturgeon

The famous white sturgeon of the Fraser River are North America's largest freshwater fish,  renowned for their size, incredible power, durability and speed. Often demonstrated with acrobatic jumps, and long hard-pulling runs. Combined they make them one of the most exciting catch-and-release fisheries on the planet.

Many people have taken the time to educate themselves on the conservation and management efforts that the Sports fishing sector has dedicated over 20 years to ensure that these fish will be around for years to come. If you have never experienced a Sturgeon fishing excursion, we highly recommend you try this world-class fishery that is dedicated to conservation and sustainable fisheries for generations to come.

Please handle these prehistoric beasts with care and keep them in the water as much as possible. Our job is to keep an eye out for these fish and report your observations to the authorities immediately.

Real-Time Fraser  River Level at Mission

Real-Time Fraser River Level at Hope

Real-Time Fraser River Level Near Agassiz