The Fraser River, which runs from the majestic Rocky Mountains down to the coast near Vancouver, British Columbia, has long been a symbol of natural beauty and abundance in Canada. Named by early explorers in the 19th century, the river holds special significance for the Athabaskan tribes, who call it “Elhdaqox,” meaning sturgeon in the Tsilhqot’in language.
Before merging into the Pacific, the Fraser River valley forms a wide canyon, providing an ideal habitat for prehistoric bottom-dwelling creatures, attracting enthusiasts like Kevin Estrada, a fishing guide who runs a company called Sturgeon Slayers in Chilliwack. Despite its name, Sturgeon Slayers focuses on conservation, with Estrada tagging and releasing sturgeon for research purposes.
Estrada, a former NHL draft pick turned conservationist, leads clients on fishing excursions in search of the massive sturgeon that inhabit the river, making it a world-renowned destination. Professional hockey players, YouTubers, and CEOs flock to Sturgeon Slayers to reconnect with nature and escape the demands of their busy lives.
NHL defenseman Nick Leddy of the St. Louis Blues joins Estrada biannually on sturgeon fishing expeditions, braving the elements for the chance to reel in these ancient giants. Despite unpredictable weather, the thrill of the catch keeps them coming back for more.
One rainy afternoon, Leddy battled a giant sturgeon under Estrada’s guidance, ultimately landing a 10-foot-long specimen. The adrenaline of the fight and the awe-inspiring size of the fish left them in admiration of nature’s wonders.
Estrada’s catch-and-release philosophy, backed by his data collection efforts, aims to protect sturgeon populations and promote conservation awareness among his clients. His dedication to preserving these majestic creatures has earned him recognition from organizations like National Geographic and Brave Wilderness.
While some may criticize his approach, claiming sturgeon are endangered, Estrada remains focused on gathering missing data and advocating for the protection of these iconic fish. His initiative to involve children in data collection activities fosters a sense of stewardship and environmental awareness.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Estrada’s efforts to engage young anglers in citizen science projects have garnered widespread attention, showcasing the power of community involvement in environmental conservation. The heartwarming tale of kids venturing outdoors to study and protect sturgeon is a testament to the enduring connection between humanity and nature.