Alberta is a province that takes great pride in protecting the wild life and their surrounding habitats.
The population of various fish species are tracked and monitored carefully.
The Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations lists all the fish you can or can’t legally catch with your fishing license.
What about Lake Sturgeon?
Can You Keep Sturgeon in Alberta?
You can not keep sturgeon in Alberta, they are catch and release only.
Lake Sturgeon are classified as a Threatened Species in the province and have a zero possession limit.
This means that if you catch a Lake Sturgeon, you are legally obligated to release it immediately.
Source: Alberta Guide to Sportfishing Regulations
Identification of Lake Sturgeon
Lake Sturgeon have a large, brown or grey body covered with tough, leather-like tissue.
Additionally, they have five rows of bony plates, a shark-like upturned tail, and a pointed snout with four barbels.
Legal Consequences of Possession
Failure to release a Lake Sturgeon in Alberta can result in legal penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment.
Regulations are strictly enforced to safeguard the sustainability of the species.
Proper Handling for Catch and Release
If you do happen to catch a Lake Sturgeon, it’s important to minimize the stress on the fish by handling it carefully and releasing it as swiftly as possible.
Use wet hands to handle the fish, avoid taking it out of the water for extended periods, and make sure it is fully revived before releasing it.
In Summary
- Lake Sturgeon are a Threatened Species in Alberta with a zero possession limit.
- If you catch a Lake Sturgeon, you must release it immediately.
- Improper handling or possession of Lake Sturgeon can result in legal penalties.
- Proper catch and release methods should be followed to minimize stress on the fish.
- Identification skills are crucial to ensure you are complying with regulations.
- More Helpful Reading: How Do I Get A Fishing License In Alberta?
