It’s clear that some sturgeons swim well into Richmond. There are historical reports of the fish being spotted as far upriver as Bosher’s Dam several miles to the northwest. But evidence from electronic monitors and other sources indicates the most likely spawning area is around Presquile National Wildlife Refuge near Hopewell.

“That’s where I think the bulk of the magic is happening,” said Virginia Commonwealth University sturgeon researcher Matt Balazik after leaving the river Friday.