Although it may be a little known or understood species to the average angler, the lake sturgeon has remained a culturally important species to many First Nation peoples within the Anishinabek Region. Concern for the survival of sturgeon populations and the need for continued use for sustenance and spiritual traditions have resulted in repeated requests to study populations in lakes and rivers where sturgeon have been known to exist.
First Nations have ensured the Anishinabek/Ontario Fisheries Resource Centre has directed resources to study this important species through our annual project proposal process. In acknowledgement of the common interest shared between so many communities, the A/OFRC has also accessed external funding to supplement the Centre’s resources and further the study of this species.
As a result, the A/OFRC has become one of the few agencies in the province to work with lake sturgeon on an annual basis. Nine years of studies working alongside community Elders and fishers who have traditional knowledge of the species has allowed the Centre a better understanding of several populations.
This summer, at the request of Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation, spawning lake sturgeon were studied in the Spanish River below the dam in Espanola. Studies were also completed by Sagamok Anishnawbek in the river in 2003, 2006 and 2008. The intention of this 6 week study was to collect biological information and to determine the abundance of spawning individuals.
Nets were set below the Espanola pulp and paper mill dam. A total of 40 Lake Sturgeon were caught with one recapture from 2006. Fork length, total length, girth and weight were measured. Additionally, a pectoral fin clip from the first ray was removed for ageing purposes and a sample was taken to contribute to genetic research being undertaken by other organizations. PIT tagging was used for identification and a Floy tag was attached to visually identify this year’s recaptured fish. All other fish species netted were identified and counted.
Drift nets were set 18 days after the first peak of spawning males. No sturgeon fry were captured; however, there were sucker fry found in the net. Drift netting was done again a week later however no fry were found.
The results of this project will be summarized in a report and the results discussed with representatives of Sagamik Anishnawbek First Nation.
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