Record-Breaking Discovery: The Oldest and Largest Freshwater Fish Ever Caught in the United States

In a remarkable feat that defies all expectations, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources officials have made an astonishing discovery—a lake sturgeon of unprecedented size in the Wolf River near Shawano. Measuring a staggering 87.5 inches in length and weighing over 240 pounds, this fish is believed to be the largest lake sturgeon ever caught in the United States. What’s even more astonishing is its estimated age of approximately 125 years, potentially making it the oldest freshwater fish ever recorded.

The majestic fish, after being tagged by the DNR fisheries crew, was released back into the water to continue its spawning cycle. As part of their ongoing population research, the DNR annually tags and releases sturgeons. The Lake Winnebago system, where this incredible specimen was found, is home to one of the most extensive lake sturgeon populations globally.

To further assist sturgeon restoration initiatives in Wisconsin and other regions, some of the fish’s eggs and milt were carefully collected. Recent data suggests that the sturgeon population in the system is experiencing an upward trend, with a greater number of fish reaching maturity—a promising sign for the conservation efforts.
The record-breaking female sturgeon has lived through an extraordinary timeline of events. Sturgeon biologist Ron Bruch has meticulously chronicled its major life milestones:

In 1887, the sturgeon hatched, coinciding with Grover Cleveland’s presidency and the opening of Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West Show in London.
By 1914, the fish was 27 years old and embarked on its first spawning run. It was also the year when events in Europe ignited the flames of World War I.

A year later, in 1915, Wisconsin enacted a statewide closure on sturgeon harvest to protect the population.
In 1932, at the age of 45, the sturgeon witnessed the first modern spearing season on Lake Winnebago. Notably, it was also the year when Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic.
By 1945, in its 58th year, the fish completed its eighth spawning run, coinciding with the end of World War II.

In 1969, at 82 years old, the sturgeon had experienced 38 spearing seasons on Lake Winnebago and 10 seasons on the Upriver Lakes. It was the year when Neil Armstrong walked on the moon.1990 marked a significant transition as Milwaukee native Dan Folz retired as sturgeon biologist, passing the torch to Ron Bruch. It was also the year of the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Finally, in 2012, at an astounding 125 years old, during its 25th spawning run, the fish was captured by DNR crews at the Shawano dam. This remarkable catch paved the way for Ryan Koenigs to succeed Ron Bruch as sturgeon biologist.

While this sturgeon holds the distinction of being the largest ever caught in the United States and potentially the oldest fish on record, even larger specimens have been discovered in Canadian waters. One such giant was captured on camera by Yves Bisson Sturgeon Co., showcasing the awe-inspiring grandeur of these ancient creatures.

The discovery of this 125-year-old sturgeon not only highlights the importance of conservation efforts but also serves as a testament to the resilience and longevity of these remarkable freshwater giants. It reminds us of the invaluable role they play in our ecosystems and the need to protect their habitats for future generations to marvel at their magnificence.

As scientists and conservationists continue their research and restoration initiatives, we can only hope that more remarkable finds and successes await, ensuring the preservation of these living legends for years to come.