National Geographic: King Fishers, largest sturgeon for a tv program

Kevin Estrada, captured the largest sturgeon ever recorded on a TV program during a riveting episode of National Geographic's "King Fishers," now airing on Disney+ hosted by Sean McSeveney and Pepper Stebbins. The colossal fish measured an astounding 10 feet 5 inches in fork length with a 60-inch pectoral girth. At the time this was the 8th thickest fish in the tagging program. 

Watch the trailer of the TV show and learn more about the record setting catch in the article below.

The Journey to the Catch

Operating out of British Columbia, a region renowned for its robust sturgeon population, our intimate knowledge of the local waters and fish behaviors set the stage for this remarkable catch. Our journey on "King Fishers" wasn't just about landing a big fish; it was about showcasing the intricate dance between man and nature, patience, and perseverance.

The Day of the Catch

The episode began like any other fishing day, with me meticulously preparing his gear, selecting the right bait, and studying the water conditions. The suspense was palpable as we cast lines into the Fraser River, a waterway famed for its ancient sturgeon inhabitants. Hours passed, each moment filled with anticipation and the quiet hope of encountering a true river monster.

Then, it happened. A powerful tug on the line signaled the beginning of an epic struggle. My experience and skill were put to the ultimate test as my guest Sean battled the giant sturgeon, its strength and size evident from the outset. The angling lasted about 30-40min. 

A Record-Breaking Moment

When the sturgeon finally surfaced, it was a sight to behold. Measuring 10 feet 5 inches from fork to snout and boasting a 60-inch pectoral girth, this sturgeon was a true behemoth. The crew of "King Fishers" was awestruck, as were the viewers who would later watch this extraordinary moment on television.

Conservation and Respect

Our unwavering commitment to conservation. Sturgeon are ancient creatures, their lineage tracing back millions of years. My ethos revolves around respecting these magnificent fish and ensuring their populations remain healthy for future generations. After documenting the catch and taking the necessary measurements and tagging info, the sturgeon was released back into the river, unharmed and ready to continue its journey.

The Impact

Our record-breaking catch on "King Fishers" has done more than just entertain; it has highlighted the importance of conservation and sustainable fishing practices. It has inspired countless anglers to appreciate the beauty and significance of sturgeon and to approach fishing with a greater sense of responsibility and respect for nature.

Conclusion

Seans epic catch on National Geographic's "King Fishers" is more than a story of a man and a fish; it's a testament to the spirit of adventure, the pursuit of excellence, and the deep respect for the natural world. As viewers watched the giant sturgeon return to the depths of the Fraser River, they were reminded of the magic that lies beneath the water's surface and the incredible stories waiting to be discovered by those brave enough to seek them.

Kevin went on to win the competition fishing which took the anglers from BC to Brazil and then ending in England in this adrenaline packed episode of King Fishers.  View some photos of the adventure below!