Species Guide
White Sturgeon
Acipenser transmontanus
The largest freshwater fish in North America. These prehistoric giants can grow over 10 feet long and live for more than 100 years. They are strictly catch-and-release in Idaho.
State Record: Modern C&R only
White Sturgeon in Idaho
Habitat & Range
Deep, slow-moving pools in the Snake, Clearwater, and Kootenai rivers.
Season Overview
Summer and Fall (June-October) are most productive for bank anglers.
Optimal Timing
Nighttime and Cloudy days.
Feeding Habits
“Sensing feeders that use barbels to find food on the riverbed. They rely heavily on scent rather than sight.”
Regulations
- Where Sturgeon fishing is permitted, White Sturgeon must be released immediately; possession and removal from the water are prohibited.
- Sturgeon fishing is illegal in the Kootenai River; check current IDFG rules for required gear.
Always confirm with the current IDFG rule book before heading out — limits and seasons change by water.
Tactical Insights
- 1Anchoring in deep holes with heavy weights (8-16 oz)
- 2Use large circle hooks to ensure safe mouth-hooking
Best Baits & Lures
General species-level starting points, not a live local bite report.
Smelt
Squid
Pickled Herring
Nightcrawler 'gobs'
Lamprey
Recommended Gear
- Sturgeon-class heavy rods
- 80-130 lb braided line