Continued science-based management practices and habitat work have maintained lake sturgeon populations throughout Wisconsin, allowing anglers to participate in another inland hook-and-line season. The 2023 season will be open only certain waters and will last from September 2 to 30.
Anglers wishing to catch lake sturgeon must have a 2023 general fishing license and a valid lake sturgeon hook and line ($20 for residents and $50 for nonresidents). Licenses and tags can be purchased online through Go for it or from one of our License Providers.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds anglers that only one fish may be taken per season, and that the fish caught must be at least 60 inches long. If anglers wish to catch a lake sturgeon, they must validate their tag immediately after catching the sturgeon and before moving it. Anglers must also register the caught sturgeon with designated registration desk before 6:00 p.m. on the day following the day the fish was caught.
Please note that a hook-and-line sturgeon tag is not required if the angler plans to release all sturgeon caught. Anglers should continue to operate responsible catch-and-release techniques for fish they do not intend to keep. For more information, visit the DNR website responsible release website.
Some sturgeon may have a tag near their dorsal fin. This tag contains information used to monitor the movement and growth of lake sturgeon and will assist the DNR in future sturgeon management practices.
If an angler catches a tagged sturgeon, he or she should send the following information to: county fisheries biologist:
- Where was the fish caught?
- Date of catch
- Tag number, color and tag material composition (e.g. metal or plastic)
- Total length of the fish
Find more information about website for the sturgeon hook and line season.