Sturgeon Fishing - ?

[I would eat it]

I am a first time sturgeoner, fishing in my own sled, and would love some tips on where to find some good action for the kids and possible keepers.
spots on the Wilamette, line size, rod size, bait (what works good - without giving up family secrets) etc.

[blacktail519]

for fishing the willamette,and columbia. I try to use as light of gear as i can get away with. Usuaslly a heavy action rod 15-30lb is sufficient. I run 50 pound tuff line, wich has worked great. Smelt of course, but you can experiment with different bait combinations. Dont forget to run a slider for your lead line, and i use about an 18 inch leader with 6 Owner hook. I am sure Tacklebuster may give you some great tips... The guy is a wiz when it comes to sturgeon. I think he may have been one in a past life :smile: . Any way good luck, And dont get frustrated. Todd

[Lwagg2]

the willy is hot right now the columbia has been so slow, i use a heavy action 7 ft rod with a 4/0 (penn 113h) reel my wifes is a 3/0 both are lined with 30lb maxium line with 24 in of 80 lb darcon leader using a slider with a 6 to 12 oz of wieght (more if your fishing th gorge) smelt sand shrimp squid eel and anchovies have turned up bites but i am partial to smelt with a shrimp scent gued up in it good luck and remember the 3 rules of sturgeon fishing

1) don't let go of the pole
2) have fun
3) dont let go of the little people

had to make up #3 while bank fishing bonni with my wife at 5'3" and all of 98lbs she got a 55 on it was pulling her towards the water so my best friend was holding her by the coat while she reeled the bad boy in but SHE DID IT.!!!!!!

[Lwagg2]

check out tacklebusters cold water tatics
here

good stuff