Environment DEC
From the July 2009 issue
Possession of Lake Sturgeon in NY Prohibited
Lake sturgeon are a protected species
In the wake of numerous reports of anglers catching lake sturgeon in the Upper Niagara River near Buffalo Harbor, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reminds the public that these fish (Acipenser fulvescens) are listed as a threatened species in the state. There is no open season for this fish species, and possession of lake sturgeon in New York is prohibited.
Anglers who unintentionally hook into sturgeon should do the following to ensure that the fish are returned to the water unharmed:
• Avoid bringing the fish into the boat if possible.
• Use pliers to remove the hook; sturgeon are almost always hooked in the mouth.
• Always support the fish horizontally; do not hold sturgeon in a vertical position by their head, gills or tails, even for taking pictures.
• Never touch their eyes or gills.
• Minimize their time out of the water.
• Use caution when handling the fish as they have sharp, scaly plates called scutes on their backs; use gloves or a damp towel to avoid injury.
From Decimation to Restoration
Lake sturgeon were once abundant in New York, but past commercial fishing, dam building and habitat loss decimated populations. As a result of protection and stocking efforts by DEC, populations are recovering. However, they still are very low compared to historical levels in New York and the rest of the Great Lakes states.
Because of restoration efforts by state and federal agencies, sturgeon often are tagged for ongoing research. If you find a tagged lake sturgeon, please follow the reporting instructions on the tag, or contact your regional DEC office for assistance.
