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The noble sterlet is a direct relative of the sturgeon. It comes from its illustrious lineage. It used to be abundant in Siberian rivers, but humans reduced this beautiful fish to the Red Book. However, even today, it's still possible to occasionally catch this beauty in Siberia's cold rivers.
What is this notorious fish - sterlet?
Many anglers who haven't been to the Yenisei, Ob, or Irtysh rivers have probably never seen this noble creature. As for catching it, there may be only a handful left. Even Siberians who fish regularly might never have caught the so-called "Tsar Fish."
Sturgeon rarely grow to large sizes; they are typically smaller sturgeons. The most common catch is the sterlet, which measures about half a meter. However, trophy fish—giants reaching 1.5 meters in length and weighing up to 20 kg—are still found in the Yenisei.
In appearance, sterlets are very similar to their sturgeon relatives. They have elongated bodies and pointed heads with barbels and a mouth. A distinctive feature of these fish is the lack of scales on their bodies, replaced by spines running from head to tail.
How to catch a king fish.
A relative of the sturgeon and beluga, the sterlet prefers deep water. Therefore, you can expect to see it bite in various pits, depressions, and ditches within the reservoir. These areas are easily visible on fishing echo sounders. Sterlet often migrate long distances from the shore because they are wary of unfamiliar noises.
Therefore, experienced anglers use boats and rafts when targeting any species of sturgeon. You can also catch this endangered queen from the shore using certain types of tackle: bottom fishing, casting, spinning, and feeder fishing. And in winter, you can even use a fishing rod.
Fishing tours on the Putorana Plateau, specifically Siberia's most beautiful Yenisei River, used to satisfy anglers' desires to land a royal fish, but now fishing is restricted or completely prohibited in many areas. While it's possible to catch a fish and experience the thrill of its fight, once caught, the fish must be released.
Donka
One of the simplest fishing tackles. It consists of a long line wound around a rod, the end of which is fitted with a heavy weight and hooks. Catching sterlet with a bottom fishing rod is a common method. We find the river bottom and cast the rod into the nearest hole. Then, we attach a bell to the line and wait for a bite. If a bite occurs, set the hook sharply, and then the sterlet may become a trophy.
Spinning
Sturgeon are typically caught with spinning rods in the fall. At this time, the fish migrate to wintering grounds in the deep depressions and pits of the river. Earthworms are the best bait for catching them. A sharp hookset, similar to bottom fishing, is crucial for catching them.
A commercial fish popular for its black caviar and delicious meat, sturgeon are often targeted by poachers. Sturgeon have always been highly prized and sought after. The fish earned the title "Royal" due to its frequent presence at royal feasts and banquets. Sturgeon, meanwhile, were considered the most honored and respected "guests."
These days, not everyone can afford to indulge in "sturgeon a la tsar," even on a special occasion, washed down with delicious tea, sandwiches, and black caviar. Therefore, in a sense, sterlet remains for many a true delicacy from the royal, opulent table.
