It’s Been One Year Since the Rare Sturgeon Discovery in the Des Moines River

It has been about a year since the surprising discovery on Iowa's Des Moines River, when biologists with the DNR documented two federally endangered Pallid sturgeon in a stretch of river where they had never been officially recorded before. As someone who loves pulling in a good catch, I'm sure it was a moment that would stick with the Iowa DNR officers for life.

Now I have spent a lot of time fishing across this state, from small ponds to big rivers and backwaters. And I must say, I've never hooked a sturgeon. My only real close-up experience has been at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque. Seeing them there gives you a better sense of just how ancient and unique these fish really are. From what I've read, these things can grow to be the size of legends; literally.

Sturgeon are some of the most primitive fish still living in North America. The Lake sturgeon can live more than 100 years and grow over 7 feet long. Some reach weights well over 200 pounds. Pallid sturgeon are a little different in shape and behavior, but they are still long-lived. Essentially, sturgeon are slow-growing fish that can survive for decades. They also take a long time to mature, with some not spawning until they are 15 to 20 years old, hence the issue with keeping their populations healthy. Want an idea of just how big these ancient fish can get, check out the Jeremy Wade video below.

Now what makes sturgeon so important in Iowa rivers is their role in the ecosystem. They feed along the river bottom and help move nutrients through the system. They also act as an all-important indicator species. When sturgeon populations are stable, it often means the river system and water quality is in a better overall condition.

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The discovery in the Des Moines River was important because it showed these fish are still moving through systems where they're not expected to be present. It also highlighted how much we still have to learn about Iowa’s rivers.

From a fishing perspective, it also reinforces something simple. Know what you are catching. Iowa has plenty of rules and regulations when it comes to casting your rod, several species are on the "no-go" list. That includes two of our three sturgeon species found in Iowa, that must be released immediately and unharmed.

For me, it adds a deeper level of respect every time I am on the water. These fish have been part of these rivers for a very long time, and seeing them persist, even in small numbers, is a reminder of what we are trying to protect in Iowa’s waters.