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WorldClass Lake Sturgeon Fishing In Stillwater Minnesota

Chasing Lake Sturgeon in Stillwater's Deep Waters

Lake Sturgeon caught while Deep Sea Jigging and Trolling in Stillwater MN

The boat glides across the St. Croix River. Jared and his crew are eager. The sun peeks through clouds. A cool breeze rustles leaves. The water shimmers. Fishing rods stand ready. Anticipation builds. A line tugs. Excitement erupts. A sturgeon breaches. It fights hard. The reel screams. Muscles strain. The fish dives deep. It surfaces again. A net readies. Success. A 31-inch lake sturgeon. Photos capture the moment. Smiles all around. The fish returns home. Memories are made. The river flows on. Another adventure awaits.

Trip lead by the Guide

Ryan Bunnell
Ryan Bunnell
Ryan Bunnell
St. Croix River
  • Thrilling St. Croix River Fishing Guides!
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Summary

A fishing expedition for lake sturgeon in Stillwater, Minnesota promises an unforgettable adventure on the scenic St. Croix River. This ancient fish species, Acipenser fulvescens, has inhabited these waters for millions of years, making it a living fossil and a prized catch for anglers. As you set out on the calm waters near Stillwater, the tranquil surroundings belie the excitement that awaits beneath the surface. Lake sturgeon can grow to impressive sizes, with some specimens reaching over 100 pounds and 6 feet in length. Their distinctive appearance, characterized by a shark-like tail and armored scutes along their bodies, makes them a unique and thrilling target for fishing enthusiasts. The best time to fish for lake sturgeon in Stillwater is typically during the spring and fall when they are most active. Anglers often use heavy tackle and bait such as nightcrawlers, cut bait, or even sturgeon eggs to entice these bottom-feeding giants. Patience is key when targeting lake sturgeon, as they can be elusive and require persistence. However, the reward of hooking into one of these prehistoric behemoths is well worth the wait. As you fish, take in the beautiful surroundings of the St. Croix River Valley, with its forested banks and diverse wildlife. Remember to practice catch and release to help conserve this important species for future generations. A successful lake sturgeon fishing trip in Stillwater not only provides an exhilarating angling experience but also offers a connection to the rich natural history of the region.

Exploring the Depths of Stillwater

The peaceful waters of Stillwater, Minnesota stretch out before us, their surface a mirror reflecting the cloudy sky above. Tall trees line the shoreline, their leaves rustling gently in the breeze. This serene setting is home to a fascinating creature lurking beneath the surface - the lake sturgeon, scientifically known as Acipenser fulvescens. These ancient fish have inhabited these waters for millions of years, their presence a testament to the enduring nature of this aquatic ecosystem.

The Majestic Lake Sturgeon

As we peer into the depths, we catch glimpses of the lake sturgeon's distinctive silhouette. These prehistoric-looking fish can grow to impressive sizes, with some individuals reaching lengths of over seven feet. Their armor-like scales and shark-like tails make them a unique sight in the freshwater world. The lake sturgeon's presence in Stillwater's waters is a positive indicator of the health of this aquatic environment, as these fish require clean, well-oxygenated water to thrive.

Conservation Efforts in Stillwater

The tranquil scene before us belies the ongoing efforts to protect and preserve the lake sturgeon population in Stillwater. Local conservation groups work tirelessly to maintain water quality, restore habitats, and educate the public about these remarkable fish. Their efforts ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to witness the majesty of the lake sturgeon in its natural habitat, continuing the ancient legacy of these remarkable creatures in the waters of Stillwater.

Specie explored in this image

Lake Sturgeon
Lake Sturgeon
Species Name: Lake Sturgeon
Species Family: Acipenseridae
Species Order: Acipenseriformes
Habitat: Onshore
Weight: 30 - 300 pounds
Length: 36" - 108"
The lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens, is a prehistoric marvel of freshwater ecosystems. With its armored plates and shark-like tail, this ancient fish looks like it swam straight out of the Jurassic era. Its long, torpedo-shaped body can grow to impressive sizes, sometimes reaching over 7 feet in length and weighing up to 300 pounds. The lake sturgeon's snout is equipped with sensitive barbels, which it uses to detect prey on the river bottom. These bottom-feeders vacuum up small invertebrates, leaving characteristic pockmarks in the sediment. Despite their intimidating appearance, lake sturgeon are gentle giants, known for their slow growth and long lifespan – some individuals can live for over a century. Their presence in a waterway is often considered a sign of a healthy ecosystem. Fishing for lake sturgeon can be an exhilarating experience, as these powerful fish put up a memorable fight when hooked. However, due to their vulnerable status, many areas have strict regulations on sturgeon fishing to protect these living fossils. Catching and releasing a lake sturgeon offers anglers a unique opportunity to connect with a creature that has remained largely unchanged for millions of years, providing a tangible link to the distant past in our modern waterways.

More species you can explore on this trip

Lake Sturgeon

Lake Sturgeon

Sauger

Sauger

Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass

Walleye

Walleye

White Bass

White Bass

Other customer memories from this trip

The charter fishing boat "Sea Whisper" measures 32 feet in length and features a sturdy fiberglass hull designed to handle offshore conditions. Its spacious deck provides ample room for up to six anglers to fish comfortably. The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art fish finding technology including sonar and GPS navigation systems. Multiple rod holders line the gunwales and there's a large live well to keep bait and caught fish fresh. The cabin area offers protection from the elements and houses basic amenities. Twin outboard motors provide reliable propulsion and excellent maneuverability. Safety equipment includes life jackets personal flotation devices flares and a marine radio. The experienced captain utilizes downriggers outriggers and a variety of tackle to target different species depending on the season and location. With its well-maintained appearance and comprehensive gear the Sea Whisper is fully outfitted for successful fishing charters in both nearshore and offshore waters.

Weather when the photo was taken

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Book your unforgettable fishing adventure with Croix Boys Guided Adventures today! Whether you're targeting walleye, smallmouth bass, or enjoying a family fishing trip, Captain Ryan Bunnell is ready to guide you to the best fishing spots on the St. Croix River.

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