Chilliwack-based fishing guide company lands record-setting white sturgeon on the Fraser River

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The Fraser River white sturgeon is the largest freshwater fish species in North America and is classified as one of the most remarkable fish populations on the planet with a history that stretches back millions of years. While the fish can reach extraordinary sizes and live for more than a century, their long-term future depends on continued conservation efforts, habitat protection, research and public education.

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Sturgeon Slayers says it is laser-focused on conservation best practices, mandatory catch-and-release methods, showcasing proper fish handling and recovery, minimizing fight times, teaching calm, controlled landings and providing guest education on sturgeon care. 

“The group operates with a simple truth: that there is no future in guiding without conservation,” the company said. “Every trip it makes on the Fraser River is guided with respect for the fish, the ecosystem, and the responsibility that comes with access to one of the world’s most important white sturgeon fisheries.

Sturgeon Slayers participates in the Sturgeon Monitoring and Assessment Tagging Program that also includes the FVAGA, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, InStream Fisheries Research, the Province of BC and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The data collected by each of these partner organizations helps track sturgeon movement, growth and population health and guides how the species is protected long term.

“This catch represents a significant moment in the history of the Fraser River sturgeon and further highlights the importance of ongoing conservation efforts surrounding one of the world’s most ancient freshwater species,” says Estrada, who was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal just last year in recognition of his contributions to sturgeon conservation and community service. “It’s a reminder that there are giants swimming in the Fraser River and it’s our responsibility to ensure future generations have an opportunity to witness and protect them. We don’t own the river. We steward it. Every fish we catch is treated as a living record, not a trophy.”

In its nearly two decades of guiding, Sturgeon Slayers has welcomed anglers from around the world to experience the Fraser River while promoting sustainable catch-and-release practices and stewardship of BC’s iconic white sturgeon population.

The company’s environmental consideration-focused approach has attracted international attention and has been featured by major media organizations including National Geographic, Discovery Channel, BBC Earth, Animal Planet, Disney+ and more. Sturgeon Slayers has also hosted prominent digital creators and wildlife personalities, including Coyote Peterson of Brave Wilderness and members of Googan Squad bait and tackle, introducing millions of viewers to the Fraser and its extraordinary, world-class sturgeon fishery.