Fishing Charters in California

Browse fishing charters in California that can help you catch white sturgeon.

Best Time to Catch White Sturgeon

Peak season: May, June. Also good: April, July. Right now in February, activity is poor.

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Seasonal Activity Chart

White Sturgeon

White Sturgeon

Various

Sacramento, California, provides excellent opportunities to hook into white sturgeon in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The unique aspect of this location is its intricate network of sloughs and channels, creating diverse habitats that sturgeon thrive in. Sturgeon fishing in the Delta is generally best from late fall through early spring, as the fish migrate upriver to spawn. Hot spots include the confluence of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers, as well as the deeper holes near Rio Vista and Isleton. A popular access point is the launch ramp at Brannan Island State Recreation Area. When fishing, be mindful of the strong tidal currents and changing water levels. Experienced anglers often use a combination of eel, ghost shrimp, and lamprey as bait. It's worth noting that the Delta sturgeon population has experienced fluctuations in recent years, so catch-and-release practices are strongly encouraged to help preserve the fishery. Always check current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for size limits and any specific area closures.

How to Catch White Sturgeon

Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for White Sturgeon in Sacramento.

White Sturgeon Fishing Regulations in California

Open Season

Year-round, but may be closed in specific areas

Daily Bag Limit

1 per day

Size Limit

42 inches to 48 inches total length

License Required

Sport Fishing License and Sturgeon Report Card

Specific closures and regulations apply to certain waters, including the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Check current regulations before fishing.

⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the California state wildlife agency before fishing.

Related Species in California

Frequently Asked Questions

What size Sturgeon can I keep in the Sacramento area?

In California, you can keep White Sturgeon that measure between 42 inches and 48 inches in total length. Any sturgeon outside this range must be released.

Do I need a special permit to fish for Sturgeon in Sacramento?

Yes, in addition to a standard California Sport Fishing License, you need a Sturgeon Report Card to legally fish for White Sturgeon.

What's the daily bag limit for White Sturgeon in the Sacramento River?

The daily bag limit for White Sturgeon is one fish per person. Always check for any specific area closures before fishing.

What's a good bait to use for Sturgeon in the Sacramento River?

Some effective baits for Sturgeon in the Sacramento River include lamprey eel, ghost shrimp, and salmon roe. Experiment to see what the sturgeon are biting on.

More White Sturgeon Fishing in California

Other Species to Fish in Sacramento

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