Frederick Binkowski, an aquaculturist with a significant focus on sturgeon propagation, has contributed extensively to the field of fishery science through both practical and research-oriented endeavors. His career, marked by a dedication to understanding and improving the conditions for raising sturgeon in controlled environments, spans several decades. Binkowski's work has been pivotal in addressing the complexities associated with sturgeon aquaculture, including breeding, egg incubation, and larval rearing.

Kathleen Schmitt Kline and Ronald M. Bruch interview Gerald Van Straten about cooking sturgeon, spear fishing, and poachers using snag lines. Gerald also discusses family stories of fishing, particularly from his grandfather.

Frederick Binkowski, a senior research scientist at the Water Institute, has dedicated a significant portion of his career to the study and conservation of sturgeon species. Binkowski studies sturgeon biology, including the intricacies of their feeding habits, breeding, and rearing in laboratory conditions. His work has not only advanced the scientific community's understanding of sturgeon but also contributed to practical conservation efforts, such as the rehabilitation project on the upper Fox River initiated in 2002.

Estelle Wagner is interviewed by Kathleen Schmitt Kline about her history in the Lake Winnebago area of Wisconsin, including sturgeon spearing and its connection with her immigrant family. They listen to and discuss historical recordings she has about sturgeon culture from her father. Identities of other speakers on recording are unknown.

Ronald Bruch was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He spent his summers in Ashland County, Wisconsin, where he developed a keen interest in sturgeon and other fish species in the Flambeau River. Bruch attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, earning his bachelor's degree in fisheries. He earned his master's degree and worked towards a Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Bruch began his professional career with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in 1976.

Ben Burg, an individual deeply connected to the traditions of sturgeon spearing in the Winnebago system, was born into a family that has resided in the area since at least the early 20th century. His great uncle, a significant figure in the family history, was known for his spearing activities alongside the Stockbridge Indians, who were indigenous to the area. This tradition was carried on by Burg's father and eventually by Burg himself, who began spearing in 1944 and continued annually without interruption. His involvement spans several decades.

William Casper was born in Wisconsin and grew up in a rural area near Lake Winnebago. He developed an interest in fishing at a young age, encouraged by his uncles. Casper's career began at Giddings & Lewis, a machine shop in Fond du Lac, where he worked as a machinist and eventually became a maintenance foreman. His passion for fishing, particularly sturgeon spearing, led him to become an advocate for the conservation of the species.

Russell Collar, a lifelong resident of Shiocton, Wisconsin, has a deep-rooted connection to the sturgeon fishing tradition of the region. His family settled in the area several generations ago, moving from Hortonville to Stephensville before establishing their home in Shiocton. Collar grew up immersed in the fishing culture, acquiring skills and knowledge from his father, who was an avid fisherman. Collar served in the military during World War II, stationed in Japan, and returned to settle back in Shiocton, where he continued the fishing traditions.

Ken Corbett served as a state warden, with significant contributions to law enforcement and conservation efforts in Wisconsin. He began his career as the first warden in Clinton, Ohio, where he established a reputation for integrity and dedication. Corbett's tenure was marked by his involvement in various law enforcement activities, including addressing illegal activities and maintaining public order. He worked under notable figures such as O.K. Johnson and others in law enforcement.

Darlene Czeskleba, born in 1933, spent much of her life in Wisconsin. She married Donald Czeskleba in 1951, three days before he joined the Marines. During Donald's service, Darlene joined him in California for about a year and a half before they returned to Wisconsin. The Czeskleba family settled in Wild Rose, where Donald became the manager of the State Fish Hatchery, a position he held from 1956 until 1987. Darlene supported her husband's career, managing their household and raising their children.