MENASHA (WGBA) -- The DNR said the turnout for day one of sturgeon spearing was low compared to last year. They say 60% less people came out for opening day.
"As expected we saw less people," said Ryan Koenigs, from the DNR. "Poor Ice conditions last month made some wary for the first day. They wanted to wait it out."
However, it didn't stop some from making memories. Cindy Mattern caught her first one Saturday afternoon.
"I stood up from my chair and threw the spear and I knew I hit him," Mattern said. "It is exciting, I was shaking."
Her sturgeon weighed in around 54 pounds. She had been doing this for 11 years and never got one until today.
"Patience," Mattern said. "Lot's of patience."
Water conditions on Lake Winnebago were ideal where Mattern went. The north side had visibility of 14 feet deep. Her Sturgeon was riding close to the surface.
"It was exciting," Mattern said.
She plans to go in weekends to come.
