White sturgeon
Snake River, Hells Canyon Dam to Clearwater Confluence (Lewiston)
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Fish › Sturgeon
Acipenser transmontanus
Idaho’s largest native fish prowls big Snake River runs and is strictly protected from harvest.
Size range
8–240 in
Size range
Typical adult length in the waters we cover.
Water temperature
Coolwater
Water temperature
Preferred thermal regime for this species.
Active season
Year round (catch-and-release)
Active season
When anglers most often encounter this species.
Origin
Native
Origin
Stocking and native history where this species is found.
Habitat
Rivers & Large Rivers, Anadromous & Migratory
Habitat
Primary water types where this species is found.
White sturgeon are ancient, slow-growing native fish of the Snake River system that can live for decades and reach immense size. In Idaho they are managed as a protected species, valued for the rare chance to encounter one rather than to keep one.
They feed on bottom-dwelling insects and other invertebrates when small, shifting mostly to fish as they grow.
White sturgeon are protected in Idaho. No harvest—any fish caught must be released immediately and carefully. Always check current Idaho Fish and Game rules for the specific Snake River reach before fishing.
This species has special protection rules here.
Regulations vary by water. Check current Idaho Fish and Game rules before fishing.
Status: Native to Idaho (S1)
G3 (Vulnerable) · ESA: Not listed · Idaho: S1Runs between freshwater and the ocean.
Browse species profiles with habitat, diet, tactics, and linked waters across the state.
