Fraser River Sturgeon Fishing from Shore
The mighty Fraser River white sturgeon is one of the most sought-after game fish in the world. They can live to be around 100 years old, 14' in length, and weigh nearly 1,500 pounds. The subtle takes, screaming runs, and acrobatic jumps can make even the most burley of men quiver in their boots.
Often thought of as an activity only performed from a boat, sturgeon fishing on the Fraser River from shore is also an option that's fun for anglers of all ages.
In this article, we'll give you some tips and tricks when it comes to shore fishing for Fraser River sturgeon in the Fraser Valley and hopefully answer any questions you might have.
If shore fishing is not your cup of tea, folllow this link to find out more about a guided sturgeon fishing charter.
Q: Shore or boat, what's the difference?
The biggest difference between shore fishing for Fraser River sturgeon and fishing from a boat is the angle of approach. From a boat, you can pick your spot at the desired depth and make a short cast downstream. From shore, you usually have to make a longer cast to reach a reasonable depth where the sturgeon will roam in search of food. This requires a longer rod capable of casting a heavy weight and bait.
You also need to be aware of the pace of the current. When fishing a stretch of river with a slower flow, you can use lighter weights to keep your bait in place. A stronger current requires a much heavier weight. Avoid stretches of water where the current is too strong to keep your gear in place.
Q: What basic gear do I need to fish for sturgeon from shore?
The following is a summary list of things to bring when shore fishing for Fraser River sturgeon:
Heavy duty rod (the longer the better) and reel capable of casting a heavy weight and reeling in a very large fish;
Basic tackle - braided mainline, dacron leader, barrel swivels, beads, lock swivels, single barbless hooks, and weights;
Other tackle - Spider or Magic thread (or similar), nylons/mesh spawn net, scent injector;
Tools - pliers, hook de-barber, serrated scissors;
Bait - salmon roe, eulachons, lamprey eel, salmon parts, worms, northern pike minnow, artificial scent;
Latex gloves (or similar) for applying the bait to your hook;
Rod holder that can be anchored in the ground;
A bell for the rod tip to tell you when you have a fish on;
A good book or pleasant company;
Protection from the elements;
A comfy lawn chair;
Proper fishing license.
Most of the gear and tackle we carry in-store. Plus, many of our team members are also avid sturgeon shore anglers and will be able to provide advice.
Q: What type of rod and reel should I use when fishing for Fraser River sturgeon from shore?
This is a tricky one to answer, but we would suggest the following:
Rod: Anywhere from a 10' - 12' spinning rod, capable of casting 6oz - 16oz of lead plus bait. You can also use a casting rod but they can be quite a bit trickier to navigate. A spinning rod is much easier to cast for anglers of all levels of experience. The Ugly Stik Bigwater is a popular rod, available in various configurations suitable for shore fishing for sturgeon.
Reel: A large-capacity spinning reel (size 8000 or greater) supporting 150 yards or more of 80lb to 150lb braided line. If you want to use a casting reel, we would recommend one without a line guide, designed for big game.
Q: What tackle should I use when fishing for Fraser River sturgeon from shore?
When fishing from shore, your tackle will be the same as from a boat. We’ve already provided the basic list above, now is the time to dig into the details:
Main Line: 80lb to 150lb braided line depending on your reel. The lighter the line the further you will be able to cast but more prone to losing gear. Line colour doesn't matter since sturgeon don't care and won't see it anyway.
Leader: 80lb to 130lb Dacron sturgeon leader is the best. It is easier on the fish's mouth. For length, anywhere from 24" when fishing roe, worms, salmon parts or lamprey and 36" when half-hitching on eulachons.
Hooks: 4/0 to 10/0 barbless or debarbed octopus or circle hooks - depends on time of year, the size of sturgeon you're targeting, and sometimes the size of the bait. When targeting juvenile sturgeon during the colder months, you'll want a smaller hook (see our post on winter sturgeon fishing). Larger fish and larger bait will usually command a larger hook. We usually find a 6/0 - 8/0 hook to be sufficient. This also depends on manufacturers and wire thickness.
Barrel Swivel: For connecting your main line and leader, a 4/0 barrel swivel will do the trick.
Sliding Swivel: 4/0 lock swivels are our go-to. You want something sturdy to connect your weight to.
Beads: A bead or two are placed on either side of the sliding lock swivel on the mainline to provide a barrier between the swivel and your rod tip and the knot on the barrel swivel. Picking cool colors or designs (like the Shorelord Skull Beads) adds a bit of flair to your setup.
The above tackle covers the essentials. Here are a few optional items that we highly recommend youalso keep in your tackle box:
Nylons / Spawn Net: Head down to the dollar store and grab a pack or two of ladies' nylons. Nylons make excellent bait holders for salmon roe. Spawn net is a bit more durable, serving the same purpose.
Spider or Magic Thread: A must for finishing off your roe ball, and wrapping up an eulachon or pike minnow to your line.
Scent Injector: Most artificial scents can be slathered onto your bait but you can ramp it up a notch by using a bait injector.
Q: Does the shape of the weight matter?
Yes, kind of, sort of, depends, not really. Round and wedge weights (the two we use), both have advantages and disadvantages.
Round weights will roll downstream in a heavy current when fished from shore (not an issue from a boat). However, they tend to deflect off mud or debris more easily when retrieving.
Wedge weights, on the other hand, lay flat on the bottom, which keeps them in place. Due to their shape, they are more prone to getting stuck in a mud shelf or debris.
Q: Where are the best places to catch a Fraser River sturgeon from shore?
Short answer - anywhere. Fraser River sturgeon can be found everywhere from the mouth of the river in Richmond, all the way up to Hope, and everywhere in between. Here are some tips about what to look for when it comes to selecting a good location:
Plenty of room to cast your rod. Remember you'll be using a big stick that needs lots of space for a back swing;
If fishing in an affected by tides, you'll need plenty of beach to allow for rising waters during high tide;
You should be casting into at least 10' / 3m of water;
Avoid areas with lots of rocks and debris. Things will get expensive as you lose tackle.
Flowing water is important for spreading the scent of your bait. Sturgeon are attracted by scent so if you’re stuck a stagnant back eddy you're reducing your chances of catching a fish;
Be sure you have a safe location to bring a fish easily, and respectfully, to shore. You NEVER want to have to lift a sturgeon out of the water to release it. Rip-rap
Q: Where can I easily fish for sturgeon?
Here are a few easily accessible locations on the Fraser River :
Matsqui Trail Regional Park - A great place to bring the family. Plenty of beach, picnic tables, fire pits and pit toilets. The downstream side of the train bridge requires only a tidal license, while the upstream area requires a basic non-tidal license and sturgeon conservation tag. In addition to the main park area, there are also various accessible spots upstream of the train bridge;
Stave River Confluence - The mouth of the Stave River provides a rustic spot to kick back and try your luck. Requires a basic tidal license;
North end of Walters Street, Abbotsford - No facilities other than what you find on the Matsqui dike trail. Requires a basic license and sturgeon tag;
Island 22 Regional Park - Family friendly, requires a basic non-tidal license and sturgeon tag.
Q: Do I need a special fishing license for sturgeon on the Fraser River?
When fishing downstream of the Mission CN Rail Bridge on the Fraser River, you only need a basic tidal license. However, upstream of the bridge requires both a basic non-tidal license and a sturgeon conservation tag. We can assist you in-store or we have links available here.
Q: When is the best time of year to fish for sturgeon?
This catch-and-release fishery is available 12 months out of the year, with a "peak season" between March and November.
Q: Does tide matter when fishing for sturgeon?
Yes. First, when selecting a location, you will need ample room on the beach to support an incoming time.
Second, incoming and outgoing tides are the best times to fish an area influenced by tidal fluctuations. Although you may catch fish, slack tides don't move the bait scent around as much to attract fish.
The further inland you go the less the tide will influence the river flow.
Q: Can I keep a Fraser River sturgeon to eat?
No. Fraser River sturgeon is a protected species. Once you capture one, handle it with care, get that picture, and release the fish as quickly and gently as possible.
Q: Are Fraser River sturgeon an endangered species?
No, but they need to be handled with care. Keep sturgeon in the water and avoid lifting up a fish that is over 4' long.
Q: Are there regulations specific to sturgeon fishing from shore?
Click here for a general set of guidelines for angling and handling sturgeon provided by the Province of British Columbia. The only guideline specific to shore fishing:
"Your fishing location must be suitable for landing sturgeon. Elevated docks are not suitable. Do not drag sturgeon out of the water onto the shore or dock. Release smaller sturgeon at the side of the dock. Be prepared to get wet when releasing sturgeon."
