Best Place in Minnesota to Find Lake Sturgeon

Prime Location: St. Louis River Estuary

The St. Louis River estuary at Duluth, where the river meets Lake Superior, is considered the top spot for lake sturgeon in Minnesota. They inhabit it year-round, peaking in spring and fall during spawning migrations.

Habitat Advantages

• Shallow, warm, muddy bottom.
• Abundant benthic food (clams, snails, insect larvae).
• Well-oxygenated water.
• Relative protection from predators (sea lamprey, walleye).

Other Locations

• Mississippi River
• Minnesota River
• St. Croix River
• Rainy Lake
• Lake of the Woods

Note: Lake sturgeon are a threatened species in Minnesota. Strict size/possession regulations apply; check the MN DNR website.