News

Actions

Wolf River flooding provides unique view of sturgeon spawning

Posted at 8:40 PM, May 02, 2018
and last updated 2018-05-02 21:42:50-04

The Wolf River floods in Shiocton so often, people in town tell us they barely notice it.

However, a record-breaking April snow storm, combined with rain this week has given the village a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with sturgeon as they spawn.

Hundreds of people are gathering on the banks of the Wolf River to watch the huge fish's mating ritual which almost looks like fighting. 

Spawning is late this year because of the cold spring putting it right in time for this flooding.
In the past, onlookers would have to look about four feet down off the rocks, but now the river and the fish come right up to their feet. 

"With the river as high as it is, it's right to the edge of the bank, so people can pretty much stand there and look down at the sturgeon, get a really close look at them," said Kristine Brownson, Shiocton Police Chief.

Brownson says they've had issues with children climbing on the rocks before but they don't have to worry about that much this year.

While the unique view has some drawbacks, in that it allows the fish to hide a little easier, people gathered tell us it's still an incredible sight.