Michigan’s 2025 sturgeon fishing season on Black Lake has set an incredible new record for the fastest ever harvest. This year, the season ended in just 17 minutes, breaking the previous record of 35 minutes. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed the record-setting event on Tuesday. The 2025 Black Lake sturgeon fishing season is now one of the most memorable events in the state’s fishing history, and it has caught the attention of anglers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The sturgeon fishing season on Black Lake in Cheboygan and Presque Isle counties kicked off at 8 a.m. sharp on Saturday. For years, the fishing community has eagerly awaited this season, as it offers anglers the chance to catch the elusive and prehistoric lake sturgeon.
The sturgeon, known for their impressive size and distinctive appearance, have long been a symbol of Michigan’s freshwater fishing heritage. The state sets strict quotas to help protect the species while still allowing anglers to experience the thrill of catching one.
This year, the Michigan DNR set a quota of six sturgeon for the season, meaning only six fish could be harvested. However, much to the surprise of many, the season ended much sooner than anyone expected. By 8:17 a.m., just 17 minutes after the season began, seven sturgeons had been harvested. While the harvest exceeded the set limit by one fish, the DNR confirmed that all necessary data was collected for each fish, and they were properly monitored.
The quick end to the season left many anglers excited but also reflective of how quickly sturgeon can be caught when the fish are plentiful. It also raised questions about the future of sturgeon fishing in Michigan and how these quotas are determined to maintain a sustainable population of the species.
For those fortunate enough to catch a sturgeon during the 2025 season, it was an experience that will be remembered for years to come. Among the anglers who made history on Black Lake were Deborah LaLonde, Gavin Green, Keegan Freel, Austin Dreifuerst, Dan Sheppard, Jared Guelig, and Richard Markowski. These anglers caught sturgeons of varying sizes, some weighing as much as 78 pounds. Each fish was measured, and its weight recorded for future reference.
Here are the official sturgeon harvest results from the DNR:
- Deborah LaLonde caught a 45.7-inch, 18.8-pound sturgeon.
- Gavin Green harvested a 43.5-inch, 18.2-pound sturgeon.
- Keegan Freel reeled in a 46.1-inch, 19-pound sturgeon.
- Austin Dreifuerst caught a massive 64-inch, 78.3-pound sturgeon.
- Dan Sheppard caught a 56.7-inch, 41.9-pound sturgeon.
- Jared Guelig pulled in a 51-inch, 25.5-pound sturgeon.
- Richard Markowski landed a 60.5-inch, 47.8-pound sturgeon.
Each of these anglers was part of a historic moment in Michigan’s fishing world. The quick harvest not only demonstrates the health of the lake’s sturgeon population but also highlights the excitement and competitive spirit that fuels the sturgeon fishing season.
What makes this event even more significant is the fact that sturgeon are a species of great interest to conservationists and researchers. Sturgeon have been around for millions of years, and the fishing seasons are tightly regulated to ensure their long-term survival. These fish are slow to mature, which is why careful management and monitoring are essential to keep their populations stable.
Sturgeon fishing seasons like the one on Black Lake are closely watched by the DNR to ensure the sustainability of the species. The DNR’s role is to balance providing opportunities for anglers while also safeguarding the future of sturgeon populations. The fact that the season was so brief this year serves as a reminder of just how limited the harvest is for these ancient fish.
It’s important to note that not all sturgeon fishing seasons are the same, and each year can bring different conditions, including changes in the number of fish in the lake, water temperatures, and the overall health of the species. The DNR uses data from previous seasons, scientific studies, and local reports to determine the quota and open season dates for each year’s fishing events.
While the 2025 sturgeon fishing season on Black Lake was record-breaking in terms of its speed, it’s not the first time the state has seen quick seasons. In previous years, sturgeon fishing seasons on Black Lake have also ended quickly, though none have surpassed this record. This speaks to the growing popularity of sturgeon fishing, as well as the success of conservation efforts in maintaining healthy fish populations.
The 2025 season is also notable because it marks the continuation of a trend toward more sustainable and well-managed fishing practices in Michigan. The state has invested significantly in protecting its natural resources, including freshwater lakes and rivers, which support a wide variety of fish species. Sturgeon are among the most iconic of Michigan’s freshwater fish, and their protection is a priority for local environmental groups and the DNR.
For anglers, the 2025 sturgeon fishing season on Black Lake was a unique opportunity to connect with Michigan’s natural heritage. For many, catching a sturgeon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the brevity of this year’s season made it even more special. The excitement of the fishing community was palpable, and it’s clear that many look forward to future seasons when they can once again try their luck at landing one of these massive fish.
The 2025 sturgeon fishing season on Black Lake will go down in history as the fastest season ever. The record-breaking 17-minute season is a testament to the healthy sturgeon population in the lake and the excitement surrounding the annual event. With the DNR’s careful management, the tradition of sturgeon fishing on Black Lake will continue to thrive for years to come.
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