#sturgeon poacher fish

[fishyfishyfishtimes]

Daily fish fact #766

Sturgeon poacher!

It is so named for its resemblance to sturgeons. Like sturgeons, this fish is also a bottom feeder and has bony plates covering its body, though these are common traits among poachers (family Agonidae) in general (which are not related to sturgeons).

[encyclopika]

Animal Crossing Fish - Explained #86

Brought to you by a marine biologist who started her new job!

CLICK HERE FOR THE AC FISH EXPLAINED MASTERPOST!

Yeah...that explains why I haven’t been doing this in like a week. Sorry if you were looking for them! My new job is VERY tiring...and I guess that goes along with today’s fish and the rest of the fish we will be covering during this special month - the Salmon:

Salmon are what I like to call “famous fish”. You may not really know what they look like, but you have heard of them, either as a dinner option (for which they are one of the most popular fish to eat after Tuna) or for their semelparous lifestyle, in which they all dramatically return to their birth rivers to spawn and then all promptly DIE. They’re the...one and done, fish. So this week we’ll cover the rest of the salmon because September is Salmon Month in ACNH; every species of salmon in the game, except for the Stringfish, is here! 

Check out the salmonids we’ve already covered: Cherry Salmon & Stringfish.

Okay, so it’s funny to me that there are multiple salmon species in the same, cherry salmon, king salmon, and this one’s just called “salmon”. Other AC Wikis may call this the Coho salmon, (Oncorhynchus kisutch), but I disagree; I’m fairly certain this is actually the Chum Salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) and of course I’ll explain:

Chum Salmon have the widest natural distribution of any Pacific Salmon, from Russia and Japan to Alaska and Canada. They also have the longest migrations, reaching deep into the interiors of Asia and North America to spawn. This probably explains why it’s the most common thing in the River Mouth right now. Seriously, if you see a shadow in the river mouth, it’s probably the Salmon (unless you’re my husband the Sturgeon Poacher, who is back on his shit again.)

Also! Look! The breeding colors match up perfectly! And yes, the Salmon in ACNH is particularly a male in his breeding colors and shape. In the picture above, you can tell the male (background) apart from the female (foreground) by his hooked jaws. Below, you can see the huge difference between the ocean-faring Chum Salmon and the one in breeding colors:

Photo from here.

So, why the change? And how? Well, the how comes from hormones and environmental factors. Like many animals on this planet, salmon are on a clock, and once it’s time to breed, they all travel back to their spawning grounds; their bodies take care of the rest. Both makes and females turn red and green, but it’s the male that gets the hooked jaws and big teeth. He uses these tools to fight with other males once they reach the breeding grounds and defend the nest he’s built for a very lucky lady. Is it any wonder they drop dead when they’re done spawning? Imagine running for weeks on end, up waterfalls against the river current, then fight a bunch of dudes, and then make love (sometimes multiple times)...you’d probably die, too. 

And there you have it. Fascinating stuff, no?

[barfoodnearme4]

Caviar - Gourmet Appetizer for Royalty or Simply Bar Food

Bar food near me

Offered high on silver platters caviar can be easily called hors d'oeuvre for that very wealthy and famous or maybe only a basic bar snack food that sits about the bar for drinkers to fulfill their salt craving. Caviar features a long history going back to perhaps some 250 million in years past from what we presume of as the prehistoric era. Sturgeon can be a fish found nearly world wide and their eggs or roe were found to become delicious treat since in those prehistoric years. Prices were exorbitant for the reason that treasured eggs were viewed as rare, and thus more vital. When the sturgeon fish is discovered to happens to abundance in the usa their eggs become popular being an hors d'oeuvre and also the prices plummeted dramatically. Today prices once and for all caviar vary dramatically as a result of many factors including strain of fish, location these are found and farmed, and in many cases the color could determine pricing.

world of beer

Good reputation for caviar

Caviar once was a unique treat which was reserved for consumption strictly from the wealthy given it was regarded as expensive and rare. As man moved around the planet they found these "rare" fish eggs were everywhere! Fish either lay eggs or bear live baby fish so those that were from the egg laying variety were sought being a source with this delectable dish. Although some people might tasted better than others, fish eggs became a more widespread hors d'oeuvre served at parties and in drinking establishment worldwide. Using a distinctly salty taste caviar become popular being a bar snack alongside peanuts and popcorn. They made drinkers thirsty plus they purchased more drinks. With American waterways stuffed with fish (sturgeon specifically) these valuable fish eggs were imported to Europe along with other continents and sold at premium prices when called "Russian caviar". Much of the exported item went from America to Russia, then exported on to Europe as caviar from Russia, thus more significant merely by label. This practice continued during the entire 1900's until sturgeon fish became nearly extinct because of over fishing. Prices then rose because of the shortage when salmon eggs, whitefish, and lumpfish caught on as alternative sources for caviar.

Red caviar (from salmon fish) is enormously popular

Salted to preserve the taste, caviar is processed eggs of fish containing found globally popularity as being a rare delicacy which may be either eaten with the spoonful or like a spread along with numerous hors d'oeuvre, most generally served as party snacks. Fish eggs or roe is cultivated and processed using salt being a preservative. The eggs most popularly utilized for caviar result from sturgeon, salmon, paddlefish, lumpfish, and whitefish. Provided that fish always lay eggs or can be "milked" with their eggs by way of squeezing the roe out, the delicacy we know as caviar will provided. Poachers as well as a blackmarket because of this delicacy damages the source but because an appealing valuable party treat, caviar will continue sought after.

[colemanemma739]

What Sets Kaluga Caviar Apart From Other Varieties?

Choosing Caviar opens up a world of choices. Sturgeons come in 27 distinct species, and there are a wide variety of rare Caviars available right now. But, of all the searched Caviars, Kaluga Caviar has a reputation for just being extremely rare, expensive, and tasty. Kaluga Caviar, often known as "River Beluga," is a sustainable alternative to the nearly extinct Beluga or European caviar population. Intake of Kaluga Caviar may even surpass the wonderful gourmet experience of illicit Beluga Caviar for some.

The large size of Kaluga huso hybrid caviar distinguishes it from other fish species in the family. Kaluga sturgeons may grow to be over 18 feet long and weigh at least 2,205 pounds. While in the river basin, they eat salmon and other fish. And, such as the Beluga sturgeon, spend a portion of their lives in saltwater. The Kaluga Sturgeon is not only a large fish, but it can also lay a large number of eggs. Caviar production by an adult Kaluga female may reach 44 pounds. This makes Kaluga Caviar ideal for those who prefer the feel of hard, well-formed beads.

Therefore, only the size and texture of Kaluga Caviar alone make it a unique experience.

You don't have to be a caviar specialist to see that Kaluga is large, bold, and, most importantly, rich. Although it doesn't have the same color as other forms of caviar-like Ossetra or Beluga, Kaluga caviar does have certain distinctive colors that you won't find anywhere else. Its primary color is a glossy gray, with specks of dark brown and olive green. Additionally, the flavor will be quite earthy and buttery with a very slight sense of salt.

Unfortunately, due to the high demand for Kaluga roe and the Amur River's protracted overfishing, the species is fighting to live and is now classified as severely endangered. Furthermore, Kaluga is one of the world's most established and known caviar-producing sturgeons, and despite decades of protection regulations, many poachers continue to pursue the fish.

Kaluga Caviar preparation includes a minor salting method that results in a delightful lingering flavor. Fresh Kaluga should be refrigerated for 1 to 3 months. However, once opened, leftovers should be stored in the coldest section of the refrigerator. Remember that the delicate nature of exquisite variations such as the Kaluga Caviar choice makes it exceedingly perishable once opened.

Furthermore, caviar experts recommend purchasing the best Kaluga Caviar in quantities that you will devour immediately after purchase. The highest-quality Kaluga caviar is produced when the conditions for its growth, harvesting, and processing are perfect. The best Kaluga Caviar may be obtained online, at high-quality online sellers like caviar star, or on the menus of fine restaurants. Buy the finest Kaluga Caviar available for the best benefits and flavor experience.

[bestercaviar]

Black Caviar Mystery

Rare, beautiful, mysterious and so expensive black caviar became an open path for the middle class to indulge into the luxury world at least once a year...

It was a wonderful illusion that has passed because in fact true black caviar will never become a delicacy for masses as affordable as a box of chocolate.

The queen of fish- heavy weight and sluggish sturgeon with ancient history that is giving precious black caviar are having a hard time surviving in the industrial fishing era.

It's implausibly easy to catch a sturgeon with big gillnets commonly used by fishermen at Black and Caspian Sea. Lots of poachers and jobless people in the Caspian region started hunting for wild fish to make their ends meet which has caused extinction of the species. 

The mystery of black caviar is its rich flavor, high price, nutritional value and most of all its famous rarity... 

Such a reputation fuels our desire... In our perception caviar remains the food of czars... In any country in the world it's enough to say "black caviar" to express the idea of aristocratic decadence. Caviar and champagne have become associated with the life of the rich and famous.

The most trivial preparation of caviar that requires adding salt only has become the most famous way of curing caviar called "Malossol" (translates from Russian lightly Salted) has been engraved in our minds as the most prestigious and expensive delicacy in the World- Malossol Black Caviar.

There is a high chance that our generation will be the last one that will have the pleasure to try wild black caviar due to sturgeon species extinction...

Perhaps there is no other delicacy in the world that would better represent luxury, status and wealth.

It is amazing to know that there were times when black caviar was food of Russian peasants and was even used as a feed to hogs.

Europeans didn't know about black caviar up until 16thcentury and even for Shakespeare the word "caviar" was a synonym of something incomprehensible since his Hamlet complains that his play is "for majority, like black caviar"...

It's a true pleasure and luxury to have fresh black caviar, crème fraiche and blinis for dinner or make a caviar sandwich for breakfast for your child or serve caviar and crackers to your guests. Even those that don't like fish cannot resist black caviar- simply because it has no fishy smell or taste.

The best way to truly understand black caviar is to roll the pearls on the tongue allowing firm eggs to pop at once and try to feel the flavor as long as you can.

It is like a salty, nutty-buttery explosion in your mouth. It reminds you of other culinary pieces such as olives, pine nuts, and smoked salmon. There is big physical pleasure of how firm pearls pop in your mouth under light pressure of the tongue.

There is one secret to it: the mouth perceives black caviar not the stomach...

Bester Caviar is a Boutique online store where we care for the quality.

Our caviar arrives fresh from the most experienced  farms  in Israel, Ukraine, Italy & Madagascar on a monthly basis.

We don't freeze caviar, neither use preservatives. At Bester Caviar you will find the freshest high quality black caviar at a reasonable price. Also when signing up to our newsletter you will get access to weekly specials and discount for our loyal customers.

Visit Bestercaviarstore.com to get the finest caviar and free overnight shipping & mother of pearl spoons.

[greggem]

Beluga

My fourth endangered species blog is on the Huso Huso, also known as Beluga, which is classified as Critically Endangered. The Beluga species is 200 million years old. They have dinosaur-like bodies with asymmetrical shark-like tails and long snouts. I could not find any population estimates of the Beluga, although their population is currently dependent on hatcheries, of which only 0.1% survive. 

The Beluga’s habitat is in freshwater rivers. They are found in the Caspian Sea and in the freshwater rivers around, as seen in the map below. 

The Beluga is an important species in the freshwater ecosystem. It is one of the largest predatory fishes on the planet. It eats other fish, such as flounder, gobies, and Black Sea anchovy, which keeps the ecosystem in balance by keeping the populations of fish that take up a lot of the river’s resources low, which promotes biodiversity.

The Beluga population is declining due to overfishing. The Beluga’s eggs are classified as some of the most desirable for caviar. Because these fish are so large, they can hold up to hundreds of pounds of caviar, which makes them desirable for fisheries. Each pound of the Beluga’s caviar can be worth up to $3500. They are also threatened by habitat destruction. Dams block the paths they migrate on which causes them to be in unsuitable waters for reproduction. This is decreasing their rate of reproduction and therefore decreasing the overall population. They are also subjected to poaching. Because of the value of their caviar, many people hunt Beluga in illegal areas, which removes half of the Beluga which are able to reproduce.

The Beluga is an important species for humans. The caviar that Beluga produce is important to economies. Countries such as the United States has Beluga caviar transported into their country because of it’s luxury. Harvesting is a natural part of life, but at the rate the Beluga is being harvested is causing the decline of the species. Without Beluga, many fisheries that sustainably fish the Beluga will lose money and an important part of their business will be gone. Additionally, the freshwater ecosystems that Beluga reside in will be out of balance if they continue to decrease and eventually go extinct. This will cause other species to go extinct when the fish populations that were preyed on by the Beluga increase and take all the resources.

There are many conservation efforts being used to help the Beluga. Yearly, hatcheries are releasing juvenile fish into the Caspian Sea to try to increase the population. In June of 2020, the WWF released 7,000 juvenile Beluga into the Danube River, which were genetically tested to make sure they would have the best chance for survival in the wild. Additionally, dams are being built with passageways that allow Beluga to migrate and reproduce. 

Geospatial tools play a large part in conversation efforts. The WWF tags every Beluga they release in the wild and tracks them with geospatial tools. This way, they can monitor them and their development. This also helps WWF map their location and migration patterns and  find information on their behaviors. Additionally, geospatial tools are being used to locate poachers, places where Beluga are overfished, and areas that need additional protection when Beluga populations are low. 

Get Involved!

There are many ways that you can help the conservation efforts of the Beluga.

Donate: donate to the WWF here to help provide resources on the restoration of Beluga in hatcheries. 

Don’t eat caviar: If you eat caviar, chances are that it is Beluga. Although many people can’t afford caviar, don’t go out of your way to try it in your lifetime because it is a “luxury”.

Spread the word: if you know someone who likes caviar, let them know that it is harming an endangered species.

Get politicians involved: share this news with politicians and support them in a campaign to ban beluga caviar, besides the caviar produced in ethical fisheries.

Report any Illegal Activity: if you see any illegal Beluga hunting or trade of caviar, report it to local authorities

Thank you for reading my blog on the Beluga!

Sources:

All facts, conservation efforts, and pictures were provided by the WWF, University of Michigan Animal Diversity Web, and Oceana.

Beluga Sturgeon. Oceana. (1970, May 1). https://oceana.org/marine-life/ocean-fishes/beluga-sturgeon.

Chakrabarty, P. (n.d.). Huso huso (Beluga). Animal Diversity Web. https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Huso_huso/.

Thousands of Critically Endangered Beluga Sturgeon Released into the Danube. WWF. (n.d.). https://wwf.panda.org/discover/knowledge_hub/where_we_work/black_sea_basin/danube_carpathian/?364560%2Fdanube-day-2020-sturgeon-release.

[toddkelly2]

Sturgeon Spearing: Wisconsin’s Hidden Gem

Sturgeon Spearing: Wisconsin’s Hidden Gem

Most Wisconsinites have heard of and know something about sturgeon spearing on Lake Winnebago and the upriver lakes.   Whether you have seen it, done it, or read stories about it-there is surely some common knowledge amongst sportsmen of this somewhat mythological season.  However, there are a number of you out there that are, as of yet, unfamiliar with sturgeon spearing, not to mention its draw, uniqueness, and history.   Sturgeon spearing is a great tradition in Wisconsin (and especially in the Lake Winnebago region).   While the sport and season are known entities to most Wisconsinites, the history of it and work that goes on behind the scenes is both impressive and necessary to keep this “jewel of Wisconsin” at the luster it now maintains.

Sturgeon spearing has gone through many evolutions over the past 40+ years.  Changes to season length and spearing hours, license sales, use of hook and line, decoys, and instituting harvest caps are some of these evolutions. Things, as always, change.  But, while technology, rules adaptations, better winter gear and a better understanding of these pre-historic fish have made the “spearing” aspect more accomplishable, the uniqueness and singularity of it is truly what sets it apart.   As the years go by, sturgeon spearing and its foundation stand still making it the, “most pure and level playing field outdoor pursuit in fishing or hunting,” according to Paul Muche, Treasurer of the SW chapter of Sturgeon for Tomorrow.

Sturgeon spearing, much like deer hunting, is a tradition for those that have been a part of and watched the sport continue over the past 40 or so years.  The difference is that, unlike deer hunting, the opportunities have gotten better over time to the point that RIGHT NOW is THE time to get on the ice in search of a record sturgeon.   Even if you don’t have a license to get one yourself (license registrations are due in October), just being on the ice and a part of the tradition is worth the effort.  It hasn’t always been this way- as the sport has gone through many changes over the years, arguably, each of these changes have been for the betterment of all involved-including the sturgeon.

The Badger Sportsman team recently had an opportunity to meet with members of the board from the Southwest Chapter of Sturgeon for Tomorrow.  The biggest message that was abundantly clear and was said with real energy was that the excitement and anticipation in and around opening day sturgeon spearing was indeed the greatest part of the season.  That came in contrast to what we thought they would tell us was the most exhilarating, and that is actually spearing a sturgeon. To follow the energy that was evident in describing the days leading up to the opener, we were told there is a definite, “buzz around the lake,” as people get ready, cut holes in the ice, set-up shacks, and get together to discuss “strategy” and a game plan.  Second to the excitement of opening day and preparations are the memories that are made each and every year. 

The actual spearing of a sturgeon is a rush few have had the opportunity to feel but the stories, bonding of family and friends, and traditions held up each year are the real draw for sturgeon spearing.  As Jim Patt, President of the SW chapter told us, “We get together with family on the ice, cookout, and have a great time.  We will have three generations out on the ice.”  And further, “My wife and her friends are now getting involved.  The ratio of men to women is getting be 60:40 which is a great trend for us.”  Even with our own experience on the ice, it was made adamantly clear that sturgeon spearing is much more than grabbing a spear, staring into a 6 ft. by 6 ft. hole in the ice and waiting for that “missile” of a fish to come by.  (However, that is a REALLY good and exhilarating part of it.)

As mentioned, the real story of the sturgeon spearing season is the anticipation, camaraderie and tradition that can be found right here in our, Wisconsin’s “back yard.”  Right here in Wisconsin, on Lake Winnebago and the upriver lakes, we have the truly unique opportunity to experience something that very few in the world will ever get the chance to experience.  If you have never come to the lake during sturgeon spearing-this is the year to do it.   There are countless registration stations, bars, and restaurants that are greatly involved in the season.  One of which, and a very well-known destination, is Wendt’s on the Lake on the southwestern shore between Oshkosh and Fond du lac.  Here, at Wendt’s, you can see the usually still breathing (yes, still breathing even after being speared, drug out of the water, hauled on a tailgate and PLUNKED on the registration table) pre historic and HUGE torpedo-like sturgeon.  That sight- in itself- is worth the drive and visit to see.

While the sights and images of the season alone are incredible, there is much work that goes into keeping this unbelievably unique season and tradition alive from year to year.   The season is in no small part thanks to the efforts of guys and gals like those connected to Sturgeon for Tomorrow as well as many other clubs (including Walleyes for Tomorrow and others) that work together in donating time, energy, and funds to protect and grow the sturgeon population on Lake Winnebago and the upriver lakes.  For example, those that are board members, members, or interested parties associated with Sturgeon for Tomorrow and other clubs have given back in excess of one million dollars in donations to see the sturgeon survive, prosper, and get to the level we have now.  That is and will hopefully be a level sustained for years to come.

One of the most impactful of the projects and donations the Sturgeon for Tomorrow clubs have undertaken is  establishing a “Sturgeon Guard” on the tributaries along the Wolf River.  The Sturgeon Guard ensures that sturgeon are not illegally harvested or disturbed when they are at their most vulnerable- which is during the spring spawning runs.  The Sturgeon Guard works 24 hours a day (with all expenses, lodging, meals, etc. paid for by Sturgeon for Tomorrow) to make sure that the sturgeon are not taken or harmed in any way.  Years ago, poachers would, “load up pick-up trucks in the spring with sturgeon.”  As a matter of fact they could just, “reach in the water and pull ‘em out.  They would stack ‘em up like cord wood and then sell both the flesh and caviar,” according to Tim Michels from Sturgeon for Tomorrow.  The institution of the around the clock sturgeon guard has done wonders for the sturgeon population and further has changed the mindset of local residents to turn in those that illegally take sturgeon from the shallow waters.

Another great result of the increase in regulations and protection of these fish is that according to Jim Patt, “years ago you would see one or two 100 lb. sturgeon speared.  In recent years there have been over forty 100 pounders taken each year.”  The increase in regulations, donations, time and effort to preserve this great tradition and spearing season have done wonders in the right way.  The season has not only been preserved over the years, it is flourishing thanks to the conservation minded individuals that had the foresight to establish Sturgeon for Tomorrow in the 1970’s and those that remain passionate and involved today.

As we continued to discuss the sturgeon spearing season we also learned a lot of little known facts regarding the evolution of the sport, its true uniqueness, the passion and tradition it has for those that come back to it year in and year out. 

Some of the evolutions and events may be common knowledge, while others are quite interesting and also somewhat comical.   One remembrance was that there was a period of time when it was legal to catch and spear a sturgeon by use of a hook and line.  It wasn’t too much of an issue until 1992, when it became a real advantage when water clarity was down to about 18 inches.  And it was really only utilized by a few sturgeon spearers (those in the ‘know’).  But once the secret was out that it was legal… and worked well… it quickly got out of hand and the result was that hook and line was made illegal.   As was elaborated on, the sport aspect was taken out when, “Guys would use broom handles and Penn reels and play cards while watching bobbers, then hook into one, bring it to the surface and then spear it.”  According to board member Tim Michels.  This was deemed to be illegal after much discussion between the sturgeon advisory board and the DNR.  And while this tactic is still illegal, there is some desire for it to be allowed once again for various reasons. Stay tuned. 

There was also a time period where the season ran for 24hrs.  Which initially really wasn’t a big deal as there were only a handful of guys that would use lights and stay out at night.  But, once word got out and hundreds of guys started to sturgeon spear at night, it was too much.  The DNR wasn’t able to regulate it and it too was made illegal.  With that, the spearing hours soon came to a close at 1 pm.  While this was a change, in many ways it was a change for the better and most, if not all, sturgeon spearers would probably agree. 

The early end time allowed the rest of the day (including daylight hours) to patronize local bars and restaurants, shops, stores, and have to time to move shacks to “a new hotspot” at a much safer hour than at night.  Again, a win-win.  It was a great move for the economy and fishermen alike.  The early end time also made a great impact on the season being about tradition, friends, and family as there is considerable time to spend talking about the day, making plans for tomorrow, and reminiscing about past seasons as well.  These are the aspects which are the true infectiousness of sturgeon spearing.

So, while many people have heard of and know at least something about sturgeon spearing, it is only thanks to the work of dedicated individuals that the season has continued and grown over the last 40+ years.  If you have time to come to Lake Winnebago and a sturgeon registration station like the one at Wendt’s, take the time to do it.  You won’t regret it.  And next year, be sure to get your license in October to give yourself a chance to really experience the season and all it has to offer. 

We wish all sturgeon spearers, their families, and dedicated sportsmen that have donated time, money and effort to keep the sport the “hidden gem of Wisconsin” it is, the best of luck and continued safety this season.

The post Sturgeon Spearing: Wisconsin’s Hidden Gem appeared first on Morning Moss.

from Morning Moss http://morningmoss.com/sturgeon-spearing-wisconsins-hidden-gem/

[clubwholesaleweb]

Sturgeon Spearing: Wisconsin’s Hidden Gem

Sturgeon Spearing: Wisconsin’s Hidden Gem

Most Wisconsinites have heard of and know something about sturgeon spearing on Lake Winnebago and the upriver lakes.   Whether you have seen it, done it, or read stories about it-there is surely some common knowledge amongst sportsmen of this somewhat mythological season.  However, there are a number of you out there that are, as of yet, unfamiliar with sturgeon spearing, not to mention its draw, uniqueness, and history.   Sturgeon spearing is a great tradition in Wisconsin (and especially in the Lake Winnebago region).   While the sport and season are known entities to most Wisconsinites, the history of it and work that goes on behind the scenes is both impressive and necessary to keep this “jewel of Wisconsin” at the luster it now maintains.

Sturgeon spearing has gone through many evolutions over the past 40+ years.  Changes to season length and spearing hours, license sales, use of hook and line, decoys, and instituting harvest caps are some of these evolutions. Things, as always, change.  But, while technology, rules adaptations, better winter gear and a better understanding of these pre-historic fish have made the “spearing” aspect more accomplishable, the uniqueness and singularity of it is truly what sets it apart.   As the years go by, sturgeon spearing and its foundation stand still making it the, “most pure and level playing field outdoor pursuit in fishing or hunting,” according to Paul Muche, Treasurer of the SW chapter of Sturgeon for Tomorrow.

Sturgeon spearing, much like deer hunting, is a tradition for those that have been a part of and watched the sport continue over the past 40 or so years.  The difference is that, unlike deer hunting, the opportunities have gotten better over time to the point that RIGHT NOW is THE time to get on the ice in search of a record sturgeon.   Even if you don’t have a license to get one yourself (license registrations are due in October), just being on the ice and a part of the tradition is worth the effort.  It hasn’t always been this way- as the sport has gone through many changes over the years, arguably, each of these changes have been for the betterment of all involved-including the sturgeon.

The Badger Sportsman team recently had an opportunity to meet with members of the board from the Southwest Chapter of Sturgeon for Tomorrow.  The biggest message that was abundantly clear and was said with real energy was that the excitement and anticipation in and around opening day sturgeon spearing was indeed the greatest part of the season.  That came in contrast to what we thought they would tell us was the most exhilarating, and that is actually spearing a sturgeon. To follow the energy that was evident in describing the days leading up to the opener, we were told there is a definite, “buzz around the lake,” as people get ready, cut holes in the ice, set-up shacks, and get together to discuss “strategy” and a game plan.  Second to the excitement of opening day and preparations are the memories that are made each and every year. 

The actual spearing of a sturgeon is a rush few have had the opportunity to feel but the stories, bonding of family and friends, and traditions held up each year are the real draw for sturgeon spearing.  As Jim Patt, President of the SW chapter told us, “We get together with family on the ice, cookout, and have a great time.  We will have three generations out on the ice.”  And further, “My wife and her friends are now getting involved.  The ratio of men to women is getting be 60:40 which is a great trend for us.”  Even with our own experience on the ice, it was made adamantly clear that sturgeon spearing is much more than grabbing a spear, staring into a 6 ft. by 6 ft. hole in the ice and waiting for that “missile” of a fish to come by.  (However, that is a REALLY good and exhilarating part of it.)

As mentioned, the real story of the sturgeon spearing season is the anticipation, camaraderie and tradition that can be found right here in our, Wisconsin’s “back yard.”  Right here in Wisconsin, on Lake Winnebago and the upriver lakes, we have the truly unique opportunity to experience something that very few in the world will ever get the chance to experience.  If you have never come to the lake during sturgeon spearing-this is the year to do it.   There are countless registration stations, bars, and restaurants that are greatly involved in the season.  One of which, and a very well-known destination, is Wendt’s on the Lake on the southwestern shore between Oshkosh and Fond du lac.  Here, at Wendt’s, you can see the usually still breathing (yes, still breathing even after being speared, drug out of the water, hauled on a tailgate and PLUNKED on the registration table) pre historic and HUGE torpedo-like sturgeon.  That sight- in itself- is worth the drive and visit to see.

While the sights and images of the season alone are incredible, there is much work that goes into keeping this unbelievably unique season and tradition alive from year to year.   The season is in no small part thanks to the efforts of guys and gals like those connected to Sturgeon for Tomorrow as well as many other clubs (including Walleyes for Tomorrow and others) that work together in donating time, energy, and funds to protect and grow the sturgeon population on Lake Winnebago and the upriver lakes.  For example, those that are board members, members, or interested parties associated with Sturgeon for Tomorrow and other clubs have given back in excess of one million dollars in donations to see the sturgeon survive, prosper, and get to the level we have now.  That is and will hopefully be a level sustained for years to come.

One of the most impactful of the projects and donations the Sturgeon for Tomorrow clubs have undertaken is  establishing a “Sturgeon Guard” on the tributaries along the Wolf River.  The Sturgeon Guard ensures that sturgeon are not illegally harvested or disturbed when they are at their most vulnerable- which is during the spring spawning runs.  The Sturgeon Guard works 24 hours a day (with all expenses, lodging, meals, etc. paid for by Sturgeon for Tomorrow) to make sure that the sturgeon are not taken or harmed in any way.  Years ago, poachers would, “load up pick-up trucks in the spring with sturgeon.”  As a matter of fact they could just, “reach in the water and pull ‘em out.  They would stack ‘em up like cord wood and then sell both the flesh and caviar,” according to Tim Michels from Sturgeon for Tomorrow.  The institution of the around the clock sturgeon guard has done wonders for the sturgeon population and further has changed the mindset of local residents to turn in those that illegally take sturgeon from the shallow waters.

Another great result of the increase in regulations and protection of these fish is that according to Jim Patt, “years ago you would see one or two 100 lb. sturgeon speared.  In recent years there have been over forty 100 pounders taken each year.”  The increase in regulations, donations, time and effort to preserve this great tradition and spearing season have done wonders in the right way.  The season has not only been preserved over the years, it is flourishing thanks to the conservation minded individuals that had the foresight to establish Sturgeon for Tomorrow in the 1970’s and those that remain passionate and involved today.

As we continued to discuss the sturgeon spearing season we also learned a lot of little known facts regarding the evolution of the sport, its true uniqueness, the passion and tradition it has for those that come back to it year in and year out. 

Some of the evolutions and events may be common knowledge, while others are quite interesting and also somewhat comical.   One remembrance was that there was a period of time when it was legal to catch and spear a sturgeon by use of a hook and line.  It wasn’t too much of an issue until 1992, when it became a real advantage when water clarity was down to about 18 inches.  And it was really only utilized by a few sturgeon spearers (those in the ‘know’).  But once the secret was out that it was legal… and worked well… it quickly got out of hand and the result was that hook and line was made illegal.   As was elaborated on, the sport aspect was taken out when, “Guys would use broom handles and Penn reels and play cards while watching bobbers, then hook into one, bring it to the surface and then spear it.”  According to board member Tim Michels.  This was deemed to be illegal after much discussion between the sturgeon advisory board and the DNR.  And while this tactic is still illegal, there is some desire for it to be allowed once again for various reasons. Stay tuned. 

There was also a time period where the season ran for 24hrs.  Which initially really wasn’t a big deal as there were only a handful of guys that would use lights and stay out at night.  But, once word got out and hundreds of guys started to sturgeon spear at night, it was too much.  The DNR wasn’t able to regulate it and it too was made illegal.  With that, the spearing hours soon came to a close at 1 pm.  While this was a change, in many ways it was a change for the better and most, if not all, sturgeon spearers would probably agree. 

The early end time allowed the rest of the day (including daylight hours) to patronize local bars and restaurants, shops, stores, and have to time to move shacks to “a new hotspot” at a much safer hour than at night.  Again, a win-win.  It was a great move for the economy and fishermen alike.  The early end time also made a great impact on the season being about tradition, friends, and family as there is considerable time to spend talking about the day, making plans for tomorrow, and reminiscing about past seasons as well.  These are the aspects which are the true infectiousness of sturgeon spearing.

So, while many people have heard of and know at least something about sturgeon spearing, it is only thanks to the work of dedicated individuals that the season has continued and grown over the last 40+ years.  If you have time to come to Lake Winnebago and a sturgeon registration station like the one at Wendt’s, take the time to do it.  You won’t regret it.  And next year, be sure to get your license in October to give yourself a chance to really experience the season and all it has to offer. 

We wish all sturgeon spearers, their families, and dedicated sportsmen that have donated time, money and effort to keep the sport the “hidden gem of Wisconsin” it is, the best of luck and continued safety this season.

The post Sturgeon Spearing: Wisconsin’s Hidden Gem appeared first on Morning Moss.

Sturgeon Spearing: Wisconsin’s Hidden Gem posted first on bestfishingreview.blogspot.com

[dalesware]

September 6 Europe - Vienna Schonbrunn Zoo

Today we had the most amazing experience of our trip so far:  we attended a zoo. This is not just an ordinary zoo, it is purported to be the oldest and longest surviving zoo in existence. The first tour by Franz Joseph I for his royal guests was in 1752.  

It is the largest zoo that any of us have been to and the rest of this story will be photographs of the animals they have on display. They all seem very healthy and happy, but we arrived around feeding time so they were almost all active in their pens and cages. 

Spiral horned antelope and fawn.

Cormorants.

A huge catfish or sturgeon variant. 

Cranes.

A couple of sad eyed monkeys cuddling in their pen.

Bears. I don’t know which one this is but they had a very large pen and there were many bears. I missed photographing a dust up between two of them, but it seemed that detente prevailed before any injuries were inflicted. 

Polar bears. I think this was the first time I had seen a polar bear close up. Their hair is very unusual. It looks to be a translucent white. Light is absorbed and reflected from hair to hair warming the skin below. Scientists have also discovered that there is no infrared light (heat) reflected so the fur retains all the infrared to keep the bear warm. The bear fur is so effective at retaining infrared radiation that the hairs are invisible through night vision goggles, except for the eyes of course.

Emperor penguins fresh out of the pool. 

My best guess is that these are macaroni penguins, although I can’t be sure. Who would name them that?

The previous two species were indoors with ice chilling the water for them. The following species is from Chile and they are able to tolerate warmer temperatures so they are penned outdoors. 

The seals pose for pictures in the hope that they will be tossed a fish.

Look closely at the guy behind the leopard. The next time the cat came back he jumped up and pounded both front paws on the screen where the guy’s head is. I guess the guy was invading his space. Needless to say he jumped back very quickly. I hope he didn’t have a major cleanup in his shorts as a result!  

This cheetah was comfortably settled next to a log facing the other way. I discovered that if I cleared my throat he would look around for us and that is how I took this photo. 

We spotted this Siberian tiger coming through the bush toward us. What a huge cat. It is a shame that most of the living tigers are pets or in zoos. There are very few in the wild any more and often they are poached by the Russians on the East coast and sold to the Chinese. The poachers call them Toyotas because that is what they can buy with the money they get for one dead tiger. 

Here is another shot of this big guy.

Another pair of big cats.

One of the hippos.

Another Hippo staying cool.

And one of the smaller denizens. 

In the next pen:  the Pandas. The pair in this zoo were the first to produce offspring without artificial intervention. They seem very content in their space. Of course give a Panda some bamboo and it doesn’t get any better, in his mind. 

Here he had just been waving large chunks of it around in front of him like it was a fan before settling down to more chewing.

It takes a lot of water to digest all that fibre. 

The pavilion where we had lunch. Originally constructed in 1759. It was badly damaged in WWII, reconstructed and then reopened in 1950. 

A significant part of the zoo is designed like a wheel. The pavilion is at the axle position and there are pens radiating out in all directions. You can take a short tour and look at the pens from the ends nearest the hub of the wheel, or you can walk around the outside of all the pens. We found that there was more activity in the outer perimeter areas. The map we used to navigate the zoo.

The hornbills are given their food -- insects, in a container with some straw. They have to get the straw out and shake it around to free up the bugs. They then chase down and gulp down the bugs that are scrambling to get away. 

A very cute mongoose that stopped and turned to pose for the photo.

In the butterfly pavilion they have constructed a Mangrove swamp that is replete with alligators. 

Another reptile. Bev said this, too, was a skink. Certainly the prettiest one I have seen.

And more fish.

And Coral reefs.

This guy had fluorescent teeth. 

I tried to take a photo of a number of the colourful fish at once and this guy got in the way. 

Here is a shot without him. 

And he did it again. 

But I got them anyway. 

Look at the snout on the one on the right.

And a close up.

They also have several tanks of jelly fish. 

Another variant.

This is a ray that I had never seen before. 

In the middle of the butterfly pavilion they had a leaf cutter ant colony. The supply of leaves was some distance away and outside the pavilion but they had set up tens of meters of tubing that the ants had to carry the leaf cuttings through to get to their colony. 

The colony was in three parts. The above photo shows the opening they brought the leaves in through.  Below was another chamber through which they brought the leaves to the cavity that was the digester. It is in the digester that the leaves ferment and the fermentation products are the nutrients that fuel the colony. 

Sharing the iguana pen were these cute little finches. 

And this iguana seems to be saying; “It’s hot in here, I’m tired and I need to sleep.” Look at where he has his front legs.

There were a variety of skinks. 

One of the tanks had this huge anaconda, seemingly lolling on the bottom. We couldn’t see his head but it must have been above the waterline somewhere further back in the tank. 

There was also a darkened room that was illuminated by ultraviolet light. The creatures in there were all fluorescent like these scorpions. 

There was also a bat cave, but the speed of the bats and the darkness made them impossible to photograph. Near the top just left of centre is one of the feeders and they would dart in grab something and then dart away. The blur spot above it is a bat. When we were standing there, it seemed that the air was full of bats, but they never stopped moving. 

This is a pair of giant tortoises showing us their best side. 

And another species.

The giraffe pen was next. Here is a fine specimen. 

There seemed to be a lot of this view of the animals in the pens.

Most of the parrots were far in the back of their cages and so not easy to photograph. This one was up front playing with a piece of newspaper. They all had to be shot through glass.

Next the Lemur pens.

Outside of the wheel area is a huge pen with many elephants and photographers (like Bev!).  They also have a huge elephant house in which  they can seek shelter from the heat and cold. 

There is also a young one with her mom. 

They also have flamingos. 

These have bald heads, not nearly as attractive as the flamingos.

More turtles.

More antleopes.

They also have zebras. Z is for zebra, the end of the alphabet and the end of the zoo story.

Except for the walk to our preferred restaurant past this tropical pavillion. It is like the Muttart in Edmonton with three different climate zones in the three different sections. 

And more gardens. 

[otherthingsmuseum-blog]

HARPOON

by Gennadii found in Tolyatti, in 1993          

—  They say that the Volga used to swarm with fish, and that with the help of this appliance they used to catch them. This is a harpoon. But now I have the feeling that you could only catch crocodiles in Africa with the help of this item. There used to be more fish. In the main they used to catch sturgeon. But now it’s probably not possible to use this as the Volga is sick and there aren’t many valuable breeds of fish in it. This was made, I reckon, about thirty years ago. It was considered a poacher’s tool, that is you could get heavily fined for using such a thing for catching fish. Officially, they didn’t exist, but fishermen had them and used to use them whenever they could (…) Fifteen years ago sterlet soup was a usual thing. My husband even brought sterlet home to his family. You could make everyone happy with such tasty things like that (…) Now, unfortunately, the best you can hope for is pike. Or some other kind of fish that are basically good for nothing, very bony. Also fishing has become a lot harder now, the fishing inspectors have got laws about how many fish you can catch, a certain amount of kilo’s in a catch.

[bookwhats-blog]

New Post has been published on Books What

New Post has been published on http://bookswhat.com/archives/47320

Dead Game

There’s just one cause for the unlawful killing of so many sturgeon—caviar. And behind the extremely worthwhile commerce in caviar is the Russian mafia, dealing in issues far more harmful than fish eggs. John Marquez is closing in on the sturgeon poachers when...

[encyclopika]

Animal Crossing Fish - Explained #3

Brought to you by a marine biologist who is missing the fish migrations right now.

Fish I’ve Covered: Barreleye || Sea Bass/Black Bass  And if there’s a fish you really want me to do (that is legally in the game rn to avoid spoilers), let me know! Anyway...

That’s right, friends, fish migrate, just like many animals on this planet. In fact, lots of animals make huge journeys for lots of reasons and for lots of fish, that reason is to spawn (aka have babies). Now, Animal Crossing features lots of fish who do that. They are all the salmon species you can catch in the game, and also today’s fish: the sturgeon!

I wrote a paper on these guys while getting my Master’s degree, so I hope you like this fish and think he’s cool, because this might be long-winded. *channeling Blathers now*

Unfortunately, you can’t catch this fish anymore until September in Animal Crossing: New Horizons. You probably already know that they were to be found ONLY in the mouth of the river, under a very large shadow, of course. And, of course, they were pretty darn rare. I’m one of those unlucky souls who didn’t find one before the end of March, but when my husband caught one (and then subsequently 9 more because he’s the sturgeon whisperer, apparently) I flipped out. 

I flipped because I instantly recognized the exact species of this fish (that’s how amazingly precise the graphics in this game are). This was no doubt the Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus):

Like, they got the belly scutes on there and everything (these are the big, hard scales running down their back, and, for this species, on their tummy, and it’s something not all sturgeons have). As someone who lives on the East coast of the USA (specifically New York), I’m very familiar with this species. Right now, there is a fishing moratorium, meaning no one is allowed to keep one if caught accidentally, which commercial fishermen do all the time. One protocol of my job as a fishery observer is to record all sorts of data when these big bois get caught in nets. I’ve seen so many of these guys, from just a foot long that I could carry them myself, to behemouths that were bigger than me. 

This is why I say I’m missing the migration. Because right around now, these ancient-looking fish are swimming towards, you guessed it, rivers to spawn. In New York, the Hudson River is the main waterway they are flocking to. Yeah. These giant, dinosaur-looking fish swim right past the Statue of Liberty, past The Bronx, and continue on to fresher water. And get this - Atlantic sturgeon return to their birth rivers just like salmon do. This has caused a rise in very distinct populations of Atlantic sturgeon that have unique genetic markers. For instance, New York Atlantic sturgeon are genetically distinct from Atlantic Sturgeon that use Florida rivers, for instance. So, one of the things I have to do if we get a sturgeon on a trip is to take a fin clip for genetic analysis. We know these sturgeon travel up and down the coast freely, but during spawning, everyone who came from the Hudson River, for example, returns there!

For New York, the spawning season is starting right now, but I won’t say that Animal Crossing got it wrong. In its more southern range, the Atlantic sturgeon will go up rivers and spawn even in cold months like December. And it’s so great they put this fish only in the river mouths to coincide with this behavior. (We’ll talk more about this when I cover the salmon, since they are infamous for this behavior.) Oh, and, uh, sturgeon don’t die after spawning - they go right back to the ocean when the season’s over. 

Last but not least, the rarity. I can’t say for certain if Nintendo made them rare simply because - why not? they’re big! - or if it was to be reflective of the fact that these guys are endangered. Like many species of sturgeon around the world, the Atlantic sturgeon was overfished to the brink of extinction, particularly for its eggs, aka caviar! They were worth a pretty penny, called “black gold” because at the time, the fish were actually VERY common! So, caviar could be made cheaply and sold high. In the early 19th century, the US was exporting MILLIONS of pounds of sturgeon meat as well as making bank on the caviar, as well as other products made with this fish. But like all out-of-control fisheries, and because sturgeon are slow-growing and slow-spawners, the fishery collapsed itself. So, now, at least in the US, there is a ban on fishing for them, as mentioned before. Could explain their rarity and the fact that Animal Crossing prices them at 10,000 bells! 

So, yeah, clearly my husband is a no good poacher.

And there you have it. Fascinating stuff, no?  

[encyclopika]

Animal Crossing Fish - Explained #6

Brought to you by a marine biologist and a happy anon who requested this!

Fish I’ve Covered: CLICK HERE  I won’t be doing a fish explained on Sunday, in case you’re following these closely. Anyway...

We got our first request and it is for the Sea Butterfly!

Unfortunately, this is another “fish” you can’t catch anymore since it went away at the end of March. It was available all day, though, and it wasn’t THAT rare, so hopefully you got the game in March and promptly caught yourself one of these odd little guys. If not, well, you have something to look forward to in December!

Anyway, unlike all of the other fish we’ve covered so far, the Sea Butterfly is not actually a fish! It’s a sea slug! And a really cool one at that!

We gotta talk nomenclature with this one, though, because it looks like AC:NH dropped the ball a little bit. Although taxonomists will argue about stuff all day, every day, forever, this animal is more commonly referred to as a “sea angel” of the clade Gymnosomata (this will be important later). Sea angels, in general, inhabit all sorts of habitats and temperature ranges, but AC:NH gives us some clues as to what species in particular this is, namely that you can only find it in winter time and it’s special tank in the museum clearly includes ice:

(That’s my husband, the sturgeon poacher, to the right.)  This is undoubtedly referring to an animal that lives in polar waters, and is therefore most likely Clione limacina, the common clione:

This species is the largest of the sea angels that we know about, growing to a massive 8.5 cm (or a little more than 3 inches) according to some sources! Yeah...they aren’t very big, so explains the tiny shadow you see when fishing. Nevertheless, that doesn’t stop them from being NASTY little predators. Here’s a picture of one opening its face to reveal its buccal cones (that AC:New Leaf does a great job of covering):

Yeah. Haha. “Angel”...YOU THOUGHT!

It uses those tentacles to grasp onto its prey, which just so happen to be animals more commonly referred to as “sea butterflies” in the genus Limacina (yes, it feeds on these to the point of exclusion and was named after it’s favorite food, it seems):

These guys are swimming sea snails, and both groups are currently thought to be very closely related as sister taxa under the informal group, Pteropoda. The jury is still out about this - it seems there’s a lot of debate about their taxonomy. So, yeah, looks like AC:NH got their names switched around, although clione is sometimes called “naked sea butterfly” so I guess we can let it slide. What’s a little more disheartening is what Blathers says when you donate the Sea Angel. From my sources, he mentions their scientific name is “Thecosomata” which is correct for the sea butterfly itself (the one with the shell), NOT the sea angel, which is clearly the animal featured. Remember from earlier, I said sea angels were in the clade “Gymnosomata”. Oops!

Eh, it’s fine. I guess only crazy people like me would notice that. 

And there you have it. Fascinating stuff, no?