White Sturgeon
Acipenser transmontanus
Also known as: White Sturgeon; Columbia River Sturgeon
Size & Weight
Average Length
93.6"
Max Length
156.0"
Average Weight
300.0 lbs
Max Weight
1500.0 lbs
Lifespan
100 years
Habitat
Depth Range
0 - 400 ft
Water Temp
50-68°F
Rivers; estuaries; bays; can enter ocean; bottom dwelling
Behavior
Spawning Season
Spring (rivers)
Migration: Anadromous but can be resident; Columbia/Fraser Rivers primary
Diet: Bottom feeder: clams; crustaceans; fish; dead fish
Fishing Tips
PNW Season
Year-round with slot limits and closures
Techniques: Heavy bottom fishing; specific tackle
Best Bait: Pile worms; sand shrimp; smelt; salmon roe
Eating Quality
Edibility
Good (within slot limits)
Firm; mild; excellent; roe = caviar
State Records
California
468.0
lbs
Fun Facts
Largest freshwater fish in North America; can exceed 1000 lbs; ancient (prehistoric); roe = caviar; strict regulations
How to Identify
Largest freshwater fish in North America; prehistoric appearance; can exceed 1000 lbs; barbels (whiskers) on snout; roe = caviar
Official Resources
Sources: WDFW; ODFW; CDFW
Change History (Last updated Feb 02, 2026 at 10:33 AM)
| Date | Change | Old Value | New Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Lifespan Years | — | 100 |
| Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM | Updated Avg Length | — | 93.6 |