Michigan officials catch record 125-pound sturgeon in Lake St. Clair

During their annual sturgeon survey, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) made a remarkable discovery on Lake St. Clair. The fisheries staff were engaged in capturing, tagging, and releasing fish when they encountered a lake sturgeon weighing 125 pounds and measuring over six feet in length. This catch is significant as it represents the largest fish recorded in the history of this survey, highlighting the importance of ongoing research in understanding fish populations. Lake St. Clair, known as the "Heart of the Great Lakes," has a relatively small surface area of 430 square miles and an average depth of 11 feet. Despite its size, it is home to a variety of fish species, including the lake sturgeon, which typically ranges from four to six feet long and weighs between 30 to 80 pounds. The MDNR's efforts to monitor these fish populations are crucial for conservation and management purposes. The lake sturgeon is a prehistoric species, characterized by its shark-like tail and bony, plate-armored covering. These fish can live for 50 to 100 years, and the MDNR speculated that the sturgeon caught could be around 80 years old. This finding not only provides insight into the age and health of the sturgeon population but also emphasizes the need for continued research and conservation efforts. Public reaction to the catch was enthusiastic, with many expressing amazement at the size and age of the fish. The MDNR's work in capturing and studying these ancient fish contributes valuable data that can inform future conservation strategies and ensure the sustainability of sturgeon populations in the Great Lakes region.