Shortnose Sturgeon
The shortnose sturgeon is a prehistoric-looking fish native to North American waters, specifically from Canada to Florida. Recognizable by its short, V-shaped snout and armored body, this sturgeon inhabits rivers, estuaries, and occasionally coastal areas. It is primarily nocturnal, feeding on crustaceans, insects, and mollusks. Due to its slow growth and longevity, the shortnose sturgeon is a species of concern for conservation.
Length~100 (max 137)
Weight~10 (max 27)
WaterFresh, brackish
Water Temp7-18° F
Depth1-25 ft
- Other names-
- Length~100 (max 137)
- Weight~10 (max 27)
- WaterFresh, brackish
- Water Temp7-18° F
- Depth1-25 ft
Popular lures for Shortnose Sturgeon
Regulation for Shortnose Sturgeon
- Season-
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- Vessel limit-
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Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Prefers river mouths, estuaries, and bays with soft substrates
- Commonly found in brackish and freshwater environments, occasionally venturing into marine water
- Primarily nocturnal, feeding at night in deep, slow-moving waters
- Feeds on benthic invertebrates like crustaceans and insects, with adults also consuming mollusks
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Matures slowly, with females typically outliving males
- Spawning occurs in rivers during the spring, with adults migrating upstream to spawn in gravel or rocky substrates
- Post-spawning, adults return to deeper waters, while juveniles remain in shallower areas until they grow larger
- Exhibits long life spans, with some individuals living for several decades