Atlantic and shortnose sturgeons are protected species. If you accidentally catch a sturgeon, keep the fish in the water and remove the hooks. If the hooks are in too deep, cut the line. If you need to remove the fish from the water in order to do this, use wet hands or a wet rag to support the belly. Always support the fish in the water until it is able to swim away on its own.
All credit for this guide goes to Saving Seafood. https://www.savingseafood.org/news/management-regulation/what-to-do-if-you-catch-a-sturgeon/
