"Lake sturgeon are listed as a threatened species in New York, therefore, there is no open season for the fish and possession is prohibited," DEC said. "Anglers should not intentionally target these rare fish. If an angler catches a sturgeon, they should move to another area or change fishing gear to avoid catching another. Anglers who do unintentionally hook one should follow practices to ensure that the fish are returned to the water unharmed including:
* "Avoid bringing the fish into the boat, if possible.
*"Use pliers to remove the hook; sturgeon are almost always hooked in the mouth.
*"Always support the fish horizontally. Do not hold sturgeon in a vertical position by their head, gills or tails.
*"Never touch their eyes or gills.
* "Minimize their time out of the water and return them to the water immediately once they are freed from fishing gear."
* "Avoid bringing the fish into the boat, if possible.
*"Use pliers to remove the hook; sturgeon are almost always hooked in the mouth.
*"Always support the fish horizontally. Do not hold sturgeon in a vertical position by their head, gills or tails.
*"Never touch their eyes or gills.
* "Minimize their time out of the water and return them to the water immediately once they are freed from fishing gear."
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