Iowa Anglers – Here’s Everything You Need to Know About the 2024 Paddlefish Season

As winter attempts to give way to the promise of spring, anglers in Iowa eagerly anticipate the opening of paddlefish snagging season on the Missouri and Big Sioux rivers. This unique fishing season runs from February 1st to April 30th (sunrise to sunset) and offers anglers the chance to reel in one of North America's largest freshwater fish. Here's your go-to guide for the upcoming paddlefish season, filled with rules, regulations, and insider tips for an unforgettable fishing experience.

Paddlefish Season: The Where and When

The paddlefish, or spoonbill, season is set to unfold in two primary locations – the Big Sioux River below the I-29 bridge (spanning both Iowa and South Dakota waters) and specific Iowa waters on the Missouri River, stretching from the Big Sioux River confluence to the Hamburg Landing boat ramp. This encompasses backwaters, sloughs, and any Missouri River tributary at its confluence.

The open season on the Mississippi River is March 1st through April 15th. Snagging for Paddlefish on the Mississippi River is restricted to the area within 500 yards below the navigation dams and their spillways.

Securing Your Paddlefish License:

Before you embark on your paddlefish adventure, make sure you're properly licensed. You'll need a valid Iowa fishing license, a special paddlefish license, and don't forget your unused transportation tags. Hurry, as licenses are limited and issued on a first-come, first-served basis. With 950 resident licenses available at $25.50 and 50 nonresident licenses at $49, it's a unique fishing chance you don't want to miss.

How big or small does my paddlefish have to be in Iowa?

Ok, let's talk rules. There's a length limit in place – paddlefish must measure less than 35 inches or more than 45 inches. Any caught within the 35 to 45-inch range must be promptly released back into the water, alive and well. Once you snag a legal paddlefish, make sure to attach the transportation tag to its lower jaw. This tag is your proof of possession and must remain on the fish until it reaches your final processing place.

Additionally, if you happen upon a jaw-tagged fish, consider yourself lucky! Dial the number on the tag and report back with the tag number, capture date, location, and eye-to-fork length. Your contribution will aid the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in understanding and managing our states paddlefish populations.

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What's the best way to catch or "snag" a paddlefish?

Gear up for success with long, heavy action rods, equipped with 50 to 100-pound test lines (this fish can potentially get BIG). When it comes to hooks, stick to treble hooks of 5/0 or smaller, or measuring more than 1.25 inches in length when two hook points are placed on a ruler. Paddlefish prefer slower, deeper waters, so scout for pockets of depth using a depth finder or target areas downstream from wing dams.

Make sure this time of the year to keep safety in mind. Be aware of changing river conditions, check your boat's motor, prepare for cold waters, and possible floating ice. Ensure you have dry clothes on board and exercise caution, especially when casting from a boat.

I was lucky enough to snag a paddlefish. How should I clean and prepare it?

So these fish are quite strange. They actually don't have any bones and are built similarly to rays or shark having a cartilage-based structure system instead. Processing is fairly straight forward as the gutting process is the same with any fish, however, removing the notochord is a new process for many paddlefish newbies. It's also important to cut the red meat off as it has an overly oily taste.

Paddlefish can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, smoking, or baking. The key is to not overcook the meat, as it will become tough and dry. Local fisherman swear by a saltwater/brine soak as it helps eliminate some of the fish oil. Many people enjoy paddlefish smoked, as it adds a unique flavor to the meat and deals with much of the oiliness. Paddlefish meat has been said to have a mild, sweet flavor that is similar to sturgeon, with a flavor described as delicate, similar to that of other freshwater fish. It is a lean meat that is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice for those looking for a protein-rich meal. My suggestion is to cut some nice paddlefish steaks, give them a decent amount of seasoning, and then straight to the grill they go.

With the season starting February 1st, anglers are encouraged to purchase licenses early, follow regulations, and contribute to surveys that will help the Iowa DNR evaluate the success of the paddlefish season. Grab your gear, check your licenses, and get ready for an adventure-filled paddlefish season in Iowa. For more detailed regulations and information, visit Iowa DNR's paddlefish page. Happy fishing!