The Shortnose Sturgeon is generally olive-yellow to gray or bluish on the back, and milky-white to dark yellow on the belly. Shortnose Sturgeon have four barbels, or "whiskers" underneath their snout that they use to detect bottom-dwelling food items. They also have a tube-like mouth for sucking food off the bottom.
Diet: mussels, marine worms, and other organisms
Habitat & Range
The Shortnose Sturgeon spends most of its life in fresh water. When in Delaware waters, it mostly lives at the bottom of freshwater rivers. Sturgeons are bottom feeders. They feed on mussels, marine worms, and other organisms.
Where to Fishing
Delaware River
Frequently Asked Questions
Fishing Tips
No fishing is allowed for Shortnose Sturgeon in Delaware waters. Like all prohibited species, if caught by accident, they must be immediately released to ensure the maximum probability of survival. Please report dead Sturgeon to Delaware Fish and Wildlife by calling Ian Park at 735-8650.
