A Comprehensive Guide to Fraser River Sturgeon Fishing Regulations in 2025
The Fraser River, a lifeline coursing through the heart of British Columbia, is home to one of the world’s most remarkable aquatic dinosaurs: the White Sturgeon. These magnificent creatures, capable of reaching lengths of over six meters and living for more than a century, are the focus of a world-renowned, yet strictly regulated, catch-and-release fishery. For anglers dreaming of a monumental battle with these prehistoric giants, understanding and adhering to the 2025 fishing regulations is not just a matter of compliance—it is a crucial act of conservation.
This article, brought to you by Sturgeon BC, provides a comprehensive overview of the regulations governing sturgeon fishing on the Fraser River for the 2025 season. Adherence to these rules is paramount to ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of this iconic species.
A Fishery Built on Conservation: Catch and Release is Mandatory
The cornerstone of Fraser River sturgeon management is the unwavering commitment to a 100% catch-and-release fishery. It is illegal to retain, harm, or kill any sturgeon caught in the Fraser River and its tributaries. This regulation is in place to protect the vulnerable populations of these slow-maturing fish. Every sturgeon, from the smallest juvenile to the largest leviathan, must be returned to the water with the utmost care.
Licensing: Your Gateway to a Legal and Ethical Angling Experience
Before a line is even cast, every angler aged 16 and over must possess a valid British Columbia Basic Freshwater Fishing Licence. This can be purchased online through the provincial government’s e-Licensing system or from a licensed vendor.
In addition to the basic licence, a White Sturgeon Conservation Licence is mandatory for anyone wishing to fish for sturgeon on the Fraser River. This special licence, available for various durations (one-day, eight-day, or annual), directly supports the conservation efforts of the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation. The revenue generated from these licences is funneled back into research, monitoring, and habitat protection for White Sturgeon.
2025 White Sturgeon Conservation Licence Fees:
- Resident:
- 1-day: $9.14
- 8-day: $17.14
- Annual: $28.57
- Non-Resident:
- 1-day: $17.14
- 8-day: $34.29
- Annual: $68.58
- Non-Resident Alien:
- 1-day: $17.14
- 8-day: $34.29
- Annual: $68.58
Anglers must carry their fishing licences and White Sturgeon Conservation Licence with them at all times while fishing and be prepared to produce them for a Conservation Officer upon request.
Navigating the Regulations: What You Need to Know on the Water
The 2025-2027 British Columbia Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis is the definitive guide for all anglers. The regulations for the Fraser River fall primarily under Region 2 (Lower Mainland). Here are the key takeaways for sturgeon anglers:
Tackle and Gear:
- Single Barbless Hooks: Only single, barbless hooks are permitted when fishing for sturgeon. Anglers must ensure their hooks are either manufactured barbless or have the barb completely pinched down. This is a critical measure to minimize injury to the fish and facilitate easy hook removal.
- Appropriate Gear: Anglers must use gear that is sufficiently strong to handle these powerful fish. This includes a robust rod and a reel with a high-quality drag system, spooled with a line of at least 68 kg (150 lb) test strength. The use of inadequate gear that could result in a prolonged fight or the line breaking is considered unethical and can be harmful to the sturgeon.
Bait:
- The use of certain baits is permitted for sturgeon fishing. Common and effective baits include eulachon, lamprey, salmon roe, and other fresh fish parts. It is crucial to consult the “Water-Specific Regulations” section of the synopsis for any bait restrictions in particular areas or times of the year.
Protecting Spawning Sturgeon: Seasonal Closures
To safeguard vulnerable spawning populations, specific areas of the Fraser River are subject to mandatory and voluntary fishing closures from May 15th to July 31st, 2025. These closures are vital for the successful reproduction of sturgeon.
Mandatory Closure Areas:
During this period, all fishing is prohibited in the following locations:
- Jesperson’s Side Channel
- Herrling Island Side Channel
- Seabird Island North Side Channel
Anglers must be aware of the precise boundaries of these closed areas. Maps and detailed descriptions are available on the British Columbia government’s website.
Voluntary Closure Areas:
In addition to the mandatory closures, several other locations have been identified as important sturgeon spawning grounds. While not legally mandated, anglers are strongly encouraged to avoid fishing in these voluntary closure areas to minimize disturbance to spawning fish. Information on these voluntary closures can also be found on the provincial government’s website.
The Art of the Release: Handling Sturgeon with Care
Properly handling a sturgeon is as important as the regulations themselves. The goal is to minimize stress and ensure the fish is returned to the water in the best possible condition. The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC has established clear guidelines for handling these magnificent creatures:
- Keep the Fish in the Water: For large sturgeon (over 1.5 meters or 5 feet), it is imperative that the fish remains in the water at all times. Removing a large sturgeon from the water can cause significant internal injuries due to its own weight.
- Use a Landing Sling or Cradle: If a fish must be brought alongside the boat, a large, soft, wet landing sling or cradle should be used to support its body.
- Minimize Air Exposure: If a smaller sturgeon is brought on board for a quick photo, it should be for a minimal amount of time. The fish should be supported horizontally, and its head and gills should remain wet.
- Gentle Hook Removal: Use long-nosed pliers to remove the hook quickly and gently. If a hook is deeply embedded, it is better to cut the leader as close to the hook as possible.
- No Roping or Tailing: It is illegal and harmful to use ropes, gaffs, or any other device to secure a sturgeon by the tail or through the gills.
- Revive the Fish: Before releasing the sturgeon, hold it gently in the current, facing upstream, until it is strong enough to swim away on its own.
The Role of Anglers as Stewards
The Fraser River sturgeon fishery is a shining example of how a world-class recreational fishery can coexist with a strong conservation ethic. As an angler on this legendary river, you are more than just a participant; you are a steward of this incredible resource. By diligently following the regulations, practicing safe handling techniques, and respecting the seasonal closures, you are playing a vital role in preserving the future of the Fraser River’s white sturgeon for generations to come.
Before heading out on the water, always ensure you have the most up-to-date information. Visit the official British Columbia government website for the complete 2025-2027 Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis and any in-season updates.
Tight lines, and thank you for being a responsible sturgeon angler.