Hayley Herzig and her 180 pound sturgeon
Sturgeon spearers could be affected by a continuing project by the Wisconsin DNR.
The state agency announced continued construction efforts on the Samers Bay break wall in Lake Butte des Morts, which could begin at the start of the 2026 sturgeon spearing season on February 14th.
Installing an offshore break wall on the north side of the bay will help preserve and restore fish and wildlife habitat.
Construction equipment will access the project site from the Butte des Mortes Conservation Club property on the south side of Terrell Island.
However, the ability to complete the project and its exact timeline will depend on ice conditions in the area.
The DNR explains that Marsh and wetland areas throughout the Upriver Lakes have experienced extensive degradation due to water levels, leading to erosion from wind, waves, and ice.
Fishers can find the coordinates of previously installed break wall segments by going to the Wisconsin DNR’s website, dnr.wisconsin.gov.
