White Sturgeon
Acipenser transmontanus
Sturgeon feed by scent along deep Delta and Sacramento River channel bottoms, and a sliding weight lets a fish mouth bait undisturbed in strong current before you set. California's sturgeon fishery is catch-and-release only currently, confirm the latest CDFW regulations before you go.
Typical size: 40-80in · Peak season: fall, winter. Always check current CDFW regulations for size and bag limits before keeping fish.
Fish-Finder Rig
beginnersurf & pier & boat & river & lake
The sinker slides freely on the main line, so a fish can pick up bait and move off without feeling resistance. Good in heavier surf or current where a fixed weight would spook a bite.
- Main line15-20 lb monofilament
- Leader20 lb fluorocarbon
- Leader length12-18in from swivel to hook
- Hooks6/0 - 8/0 circle hook
- WeightSliding no-roll or pyramid sinker, 4-8oz depending on Delta current
- Line to sinkerSlides freely above swivel, no fixed drop length
- BaitGrass shrimp, ghost shrimp, or salmon roe fished still on bottom