Seasons & Conditions
White sturgeon fishing on the (insert river/lake name) is typically available from May to early October, though the exact dates depend on weather conditions.
Below is a breakdown of the best fishing times, weather impacts, and how river conditions can affect your trip.
Best Fishing Times:
- June – Freshet Season: June marks the freshet or spring runoff period, which is a prime time for large fish as white sturgeon feed heavily on the influx of food carried by the rising water. You can expect high water levels and strong currents, but the sturgeon are actively feeding as temperatures rise.
- July to September – Peak Season: The summer months of July, August, and September are the most active for sturgeon fishing. Fish feed aggressively, and the weather is warm and comfortable. Water temperatures during this period generally range from 13-18°C, which is ideal for sturgeon activity and for those who want to take a refreshing plunge after battling with these giant fish.
- Spring and Fall Fishing: In early spring (May) and late fall (September to October), fishing can still be excellent, with fewer boats on the water and more peaceful surroundings. Water temperatures are cooler, but sturgeon are still active, making these great months for a less crowded fishing experience.
River and Water Conditions:
- High Water Levels: The freshet season in June brings rising water levels due to snowmelt and rain. This can result in class 3-4 rapids, particularly in June and early July, making for challenging yet exciting fishing conditions. Safety is our priority, and trips may be adjusted or rescheduled if necessary.
- Water Temperature and Flow: Water temperature directly affects sturgeon behavior. During the peak summer months, water temperatures generally range between 13-18°C, providing perfect conditions for sturgeon activity. As water temperatures rise, fish tend to be more active, making this an excellent time for a successful fishing experience.
- Monitoring Water Conditions: Water levels and flow rates can change daily due to weather and seasonal shifts. Keep an eye on the Daily Discharge Graph for TEXAS CREEK to track current water conditions.
Weather Conditions:
- Fishing Rain or Shine: At Black Swan Adventures, we fish regardless of weather conditions. Sturgeon are often more active during rainy or overcast weather, which can lead to improved fishing. Be sure to dress appropriately, and always bring rain gear. Shorts are recommended as you’ll likely be getting into the water for photos with your catch!
- Extreme Weather: In cases of extreme weather, such as lightning storms, heavy winds, or dangerous water conditions, we may need to cancel or reschedule your trip. If this happens, we will issue a rain check so you can rebook at a later date.
- Summer Heat: July through September is the hottest period, but we provide shaded areas, coolers with ice and water, and misting fans to keep you comfortable. Don’t hesitate to take a dip in the river after a hard-fought battle with a monster sturgeon!
Rescheduling Due to Conditions:
- Flexible Rescheduling: If weather or water conditions make fishing unsafe, we’ll work with you to reschedule at no extra cost. We constantly monitor river data and weather forecasts to make the best decisions for your safety and trip success.