Fraser River Sturgeon Fishing in the Winter
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 recommended 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. They have been known to lay on food, which can lead to a belly hookset with regular octopus or J-hooks. By using a circle hook, you have a much less 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!
