Sturgeon Lake Fishing guide

In 2023, the Walleye catch declined to 0.5/gill net which is an all-time low over the survey history. The catch remained below the long-range goal of 2.0/net for the seventh survey in a row, indicating this goal is likely not attainable. Low Walleye numbers typically reflect limited or no natural production and low survival of stocked fish. It appears that conditions for juvenile Walleye survival are poor. Walleye lengths in 2023 ranged from 13 to 23 inches. The six Walleye aged represented five different year classes. Growth appeared average with Walleye exceeding 15 inches after 4 years of growth. Despite multiple fry and fingerling stocking strategies since 2011, Walleye numbers remain low likely due to low perch numbers, soft water, and low lake fertility. In general, the population is low in number and has average growth rates.

The Northern Pike catch rate rose slightly compared to the previous survey in 2017. The 2023 catch rate was average for Sturgeon Lake but still exceeded catch rates for lakes with similar habitat. Lengths in 2023 ranged from 10 to 35 inches and averaged 21 inches. The proportions of pike exceeding 21 inches and 28 inches met the LMP goals for this survey, indicating a slightly improved size structure in 2023. Lower Northern Pike numbers are thought to be beneficial as higher densities commonly result in slower pike growth, increased predation on Yellow Perch, and lower survival rates of stocked Walleye. High harvest of medium and large pike can negatively affect size structure. No age and growth information for pike was collected in this survey, but previous surveys showed slow growth patterns. Harvest limited to individuals less than 22 inches is recommended.

The gill net catch rate of Yellow Perch in 2023 was below average for the lake and for lakes with similar habitat. Lengths in 2016 ranged from 7 to 10 inches. One 10-inch plus fish was sampled which is the first one of that size since 1984, indicating poor size structure in recent decades. Low Yellow Perch numbers likely limit the Walleye and Northern Pike populations. In general, the population is low in number, has a limited number of harvestable sized fish, and historically slow growth rates.

Sturgeon Lake supports Tullibee (Cisco) and they were the most common fish in the gill nets is 2023. The catch rate was typical for the lake class and above average for Sturgeon Lake. Captured Tullibee ranged from 6 to 13 inches and averaged 10 inches. Tullibee are beneficial as a prey species and are associated with the production of large predators like Northern Pike.

Lake Whitefish have occasionally been sampled in Sturgeon Lake. The 2023 catch rate was typical for the lake class and above average for Sturgeon Lake. Lengths ranged from 14 to 24 inches and averaged 21 inches. Otoliths were collected from Lake Whitefish for age analysis. Annuli were difficult to read, but it appeared a variety of year classes were present with estimated ages ranging from 7 to 12.

Other fish sampled in 2023 included: Black Crappie, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass, Pumpkinseed Sunfish and White Sucker.

In order to maintain or improve fish and wildlife populations, water quality and habitat must be protected. People often associate water quality problems with large-scale agricultural, forestry, urban development, or industrial practices in the watershed. In reality, the impact of land use decisions on one lake lot may be relatively small, yet the cumulative impact of those decisions on many lake lots can result in a significant decline in water quality and habitat. For example, removing shoreline and aquatic vegetation, fertilizing lawns, mowing to the water's edge, installing beach sand blankets, failing septic systems and uncontrolled run-off, all contribute excess nutrients and sediment which degrade water quality and habitat. Understanding these cumulative impacts and taking steps to avoid or minimize them will help to ensure our quality fisheries can be enjoyed by future generations.

Anglers and boaters are reminded to help slow the spread of invasive species by removing all aquatic plants from boats, trailers, and equipment. All drain plugs must be removed, and live and bait wells must be drained before leaving the access. Anglers and boaters are encouraged to power wash and thoroughly dry all equipment prior to use in another water body.