Recognize and respond responsibly
Gulf sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus desotoi) is covered here for identification and responsible encounters. NOAA’s present range runs from Louisiana to Florida; historical records extend sporadically to the Rio Grande.
Where it may be encountered
The source describes offshore Gulf, nearshore Gulf settings. This is encounter guidance, not evidence of a current local sighting. Animal movement, weather and water conditions can change whether one is present, so this is not a sighting forecast.
Keep your distance
This is a rare historical Texas-context encounter card, not evidence of South Padre presence. NOAA identifies it as threatened and gives release guidance for accidental hooks. NOAA says not to fish for, catch, or keep sturgeon. Release an accidental hook with care and use the linked NOAA guidance.
Sources and current guidance
This guide draws on a federal authority source. Open federal authority source for current agency guidance and any rule that applies at the time and place of an encounter.