Fishing for Shovelnose Sturgeon with Jamie Cox

The Shovelnose Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus platorynchus) is a fascinating prehistoric fish belonging to the Acipenseridae family and order Acipenseriformes. Often mistaken for catfish at first glance, these ancient creatures have distinctive features including a flattened, shovel-like snout and barbels that help them detect food in murky river bottoms. Though not typically found in Marco Island waters during August, understanding these unique fish adds perspective to America's diverse freshwater ecosystems.

Shovelnose Sturgeon Overview

Shovelnose Sturgeon are among the smaller members of the sturgeon family, recognized by their flattened, shovel-shaped snout and armor-like rows of bony plates (scutes) along their bodies. Unlike most modern fish, sturgeons have retained primitive characteristics from their ancient ancestors, making them living fossils that have survived relatively unchanged for over 200 million years.

Shovelnose Sturgeon Habitat and Distribution

These fish primarily inhabit the Mississippi River basin and its major tributaries, including the Missouri and Ohio Rivers. They prefer flowing water with sandy or gravelly bottoms in medium to large rivers. Shovelnose Sturgeon typically stay near the bottom in relatively deep channels but may move to shallower areas to feed. They're not found in saltwater environments like those around Marco Island, being strictly freshwater species.

Shovelnose Sturgeon Size and Weight

Shovelnose Sturgeon are relatively small compared to other sturgeon species, typically measuring between 19 and 34 inches in length. They generally weigh between 5 and 11 pounds when fully grown. This makes them significantly smaller than their endangered cousins, the Lake Sturgeon, which can grow much larger.

Shovelnose Sturgeon Diet and Behavior

These bottom-feeders use their specialized snout and sensory barbels to detect and consume small invertebrates, insect larvae, small mollusks, and occasionally small fish. They feed by stirring up riverbed sediments with their snout and detecting food items with their sensitive barbels. Shovelnose Sturgeon are most active at night, using their excellent sensory abilities to locate prey in low-light conditions.

Shovelnose Sturgeon Spawning Season

Spawning typically occurs in spring to early summer when water temperatures reach 62-70°F. Females don't reproduce annually but rather every 2-3 years. They migrate upstream to spawn over rocky or gravel substrates in areas with moderate to swift current. A single female may produce between 25,000-50,000 eggs which adhere to the river bottom after fertilization.

Shovelnose Sturgeon Fishing Techniques

When targeting Shovelnose Sturgeon, bottom fishing with natural baits is most effective. Use nightcrawlers, crayfish, or cut bait on a simple bottom rig with a sliding sinker. Position yourself in deeper channels with moderate current, especially near sand or gravel bars. While not typically targeted by anglers around Marco Island, those fishing in the Mississippi River basin often find success in deeper holes during summer months using medium-heavy tackle with 20-30 pound test line.

Shovelnose Sturgeon Is It Good to Eat?

Shovelnose Sturgeon meat is firm with a mild flavor that some compare to chicken or veal. The flesh is white, boneless, and considered quite palatable. They're sometimes commercially harvested for their meat and roe (eggs), which is processed into caviar sometimes marketed as "hackleback caviar." However, due to conservation concerns and their relationship to endangered sturgeon species, many anglers practice catch and release with these prehistoric fish.

Shovelnose Sturgeon Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Shovelnose Sturgeon?

A: Nightcrawlers, crayfish, and cut bait like shad or skipjack herring are excellent choices. Sturgeon have a strong sense of smell, so fresh, smelly baits often work best.

Q: Where can I find Shovelnose Sturgeon near Marco Island?

A: You won't find Shovelnose Sturgeon near Marco Island as they're freshwater fish primarily inhabiting the Mississippi River system. For similar bottom-feeding action in Marco Island waters, target species like sheepshead or black drum instead.

Q: Is Shovelnose Sturgeon good to eat?

A: Yes, their meat is white, firm, and mild-flavored. However, due to conservation concerns, many anglers practice catch and release with sturgeon species.

Q: When is the best time to catch Shovelnose Sturgeon?

A: The best time is during spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate. They tend to be more active at night, making evening fishing particularly productive.

Q: Are Shovelnose Sturgeon endangered?

A: While not endangered like some sturgeon species, Shovelnose Sturgeon populations are carefully monitored. Some areas have specific regulations to protect them, particularly where they overlap with endangered pallid sturgeon habitat.