A 1997 survey showed the adult population at 549, a decline of 66 percent. Statewide, sturgeon populations also are dropping. In order to restore the numbers, the state is enacting a two-part change to fishing regulations that would become effective this April 1 through March 31, 2004. On Otsego Lake, hook and line fishing will be permitted year-round, with each angler allowed one sturgeon that must be registered within 24 hours of capture. Part two bans spearing and bow and arrow season for lake sturgeon statewide.
Black Lake is the only exception.
There, the season will begin Feb. 15 and run until the end of the month, or until the fifth fish is speared. A complex DNR system will be used to issue permits to prospective spearers in a daily lottery, based on how many fish remain to meet the five-fish quota. Brenda Archambo, chairwoman of the Citizens for the Preservation of Black Lake Sturgeon Fishing committee, said the five-fish quota is agreeable to her group. Sure, it's quite limited. It's a heritage, and we've done it for years.