Spring means spawning season for lake sturgeon in Wisconsin’s Winnebago System. These ancient fish are preparing to head upstream.
They are now staging near the Wolf River and Peshtigo River, waiting for the right conditions to begin spawning. Lake sturgeon usually begin spawning when the water reaches about 53 degrees Fahrenheit. However, when water levels are low—like this year—they may wait until it reaches 60 degrees instead. Right now, water temperatures are holding around 50 degrees in the Winnebago System.
Once spawning begins, you can view lake sturgeon up close in several easy-to-access public locations. Popular viewing sites include the Wolf River Sturgeon Trail near New London and Hwy 156 near Navarino. Other great spots are Bamboo Bend in Shiocton and the Shawano Dam in Shawano.
If you go, don’t forget polarized sunglasses. They help cut glare and let you see into the water better. Can’t make the trip? Watch them online using the underwater cameras at Bamboo Bend and Shawano Dam.
Finally, daily updates on lake sturgeon activity will be shared on the DNR’s Lake Sturgeon Spawning webpage.
