NORTHEAST WISCONSIN – Unpredictable spring weather is delaying the start of sturgeon spawning season across the Wolf River system, according to Wisconsin DNR officials.
Fisheries Biologist Margaret Stadig says crews are closely monitoring river conditions, noting water temperatures remain well below the threshold needed for spawning. “We did check the Wolf River gauge and water temperatures yesterday were sitting at 44 degrees and dropping because of all the ice,” Stadig said.
She explains that sturgeon typically begin spawning when water temperatures reach between 53 and 54 degrees, meaning the timeline has now been pushed back. “In Wisconsin, I mean likely two weeks, if not a little bit longer, until we might start seeing some activity,” she said.
When spawning does begin, Stadig says communities like Shiocton, New London, and Shawano will once again become popular viewing spots for the annual event. She notes the timing can shift quickly depending on weather patterns. “If we get a couple of really nice 50, 60 degree days, it could be sooner, but if temperatures keep fluctuating it could delay things even more,” she said.
Despite the delay, Stadig encourages residents to take advantage of the unique opportunity once conditions improve. “This is one of those things that it’s in your backyard, there’s no other location in the United States that will afford you this kind of viewing of this large population of lake sturgeon,” she said, adding that crowds can range from hundreds to thousands of people during peak spawning days.
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