Got any old sturgeon photos?

[jimhakala]

Part of the DNR's lake sturgeon stocking program in northwest Georgia's Coosa River basin, is documenting where sturgeon used to live in the basin. To date we have received some incredible photographs of lake sturgeon caught by anglers in the 1940's, 50's, and 60's in the Coosa R., Oostanaula R., and Etowah R. downstream of Lake Allatoona. Some of these photos show sturgeon up to 40 lbs in weight and 4-5ft. in length!

I'm now looking for accounts and/or pictures of historic sturgeon catches for the rivers listed above, as well as for the Conasauga, Coosawattee, and the Etowah above Lake Allatoona (Canton area).

So, if you have old photos or accounts from your parents, grandparents or even great grandparents regarding sturgeon anywhere in the Coosa River basin, please contact me through this site, e-mail: [e-mail], or by phone [phone](office).

Any photographs provided would be copied by DNR and the original returned to the owner.

Thanks in advance!

Jim

[Fly Guy]

I have been meaning to ask about this. From time to time I see a mystery fish up in the shallows and cannot identify it. It is "Bass" like in that it is not a sun fish, cat fish or gar. It NEVER pays attention to a fly or lure and is FAST. I see it by it's self or with 1 or 2 others max. And did I mention it is fast? The feature other than speed that stands out the most is a pointed forked tail. Color is brown/green. Size is 14" to 16" and slender.

Jeff

[jimhakala]

Likely not a sturgeon, but perhaps a grass carp. Jim

[Fly Guy]

Jim,
Thanks. I looked at some pictures of grass carp on line and the shape looks like what I'm talking about. I don't remember the large scales but I can't rule that out. I'll look closed next time.

Jeff

[tintriton]

Hey Fly Guy -

If it is a carp - they will hit a fly but you have to stalk them like a red fish in the flats as they are easily alerted to your presence.

I use to go after them on the hooch above Morgan Falls dam. They fight like mad - I saw one once walk on its tail like a tarpon.

Do a google search for fly fishing carp - you'll see lots of articles. Dave Whitlock has one out there as do many others.