Sturgeon Spearing Slows on Lake Winnebago

DNR Teases Expanded Catch-and-Release Sturgeon Fishing Season

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Sturgeon spearing on Lake Winnebago slowed to a crawl on Friday as deteriorating ice conditions caused by heavy rain impacted the season. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reported only 19 sturgeon were speared on the lake, with two weighing over 100 pounds. Meanwhile, the DNR hinted at an expansion of catch-and-release sturgeon fishing seasons on 18 additional water bodies across the state, though the Winnebago system will not be included.

Why it matters

Sturgeon spearing is an important cultural tradition and recreational activity in Wisconsin, particularly in the Lake Winnebago region. The slow pace of this year's season due to weather conditions raises concerns about the overall health and sustainability of the sturgeon population, while the DNR's plans for expanded catch-and-release fishing suggest efforts to manage the species more broadly across the state.

The details

On Friday, only 19 sturgeon were speared on Lake Winnebago, including two over 100 pounds. This brings the total for the season to 1,175 sturgeon speared on Lake Winnebago and 279 on the upriver lakes, which closed after just three days. The season on Lake Winnebago could close early if harvest caps are met, with the adult female category nearing its 90% cap. Meanwhile, the DNR announced plans to expand catch-and-release sturgeon fishing to 18 additional water bodies, though the Winnebago system will not be included.

  • The sturgeon spearing season on Lake Winnebago and upriver lakes runs from February 11 to March 1, 2026.
  • The upriver lakes season closed after just 3 days.
  • As of February 20, 2026, a total of 1,175 sturgeon have been speared on Lake Winnebago and 279 on the upriver lakes.
  • The Lake Winnebago season could close early if harvest caps are met, with the adult female category nearing its 90% cap.
  • The new catch-and-release sturgeon fishing season will run from June 6, 2026 to March 7, 2027.

The players

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

The state agency responsible for managing and regulating Wisconsin's natural resources, including the sturgeon spearing and fishing seasons.

Lucas Muche

A spearfisherman who caught a 71-inch, 104.4-pound sturgeon on Lake Winnebago on February 20, 2026.

Al Schumacher

A spearfisherman who caught a 104.2-pound sturgeon on Lake Winnebago on February 20, 2026.

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