PA Fish and Boat Commission WCO Press Release

September 9, 2000

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Furnished by Deputy Waterways Conservation Officer Randy

Leighton

Western Erie County

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A large Lake Sturgeon was found washed up on shore near 20

Mile Creek just east of Erie on Saturday night, September 9. The extremely

rare fish measured 73 1/2" and had a girth of 34". Estimated weight is

between 70 and 90 lbs.

These fish are on the PA. endangered species list and seeing

them is very rare. They normally live up to 50 to 100 years and their

ancient ancestors date back over 350 million years. They are bottom

feeders known for their suction cup like mouths on the underside of there

heads. Lake sturgeons can reach lengths of 7 feet or more. This fish was

transported to the Walnut Creek Access and will mostly likely be the

subject of valuable study for eager biologists.

Pictures of this fish follow.

DWCO Randy Leighton