Sturgeon, often called “living dinosaurs,” trace their lineage back over 200 million years to the early Jurassic period, making them one of the oldest fish species still in existence. Their physical traits, including a cartilage-based skeleton and bony plates called scutes, give them a prehistoric appearance. These features, combined with their pointed snouts and barbels, resemble ancient fish species.

Sturgeon exhibit primitive behaviors and life cycles, such as anadromous migration from sea to freshwater rivers to spawn. Females can live over 100 years, taking many years to reach sexual maturity. This slow growth emphasizes their ancient origins.

Despite surviving numerous mass extinctions and environmental changes that eliminated many species, including dinosaurs, sturgeon have thrived due to their resilience and adaptability. Encountering these majestic creatures offers a rare glimpse into natural history, making sturgeon fishing a thrilling and educational experience. Protecting them ensures future generations can continue to marvel at these true living fossils.