Freshwater
Paddlefish
Polyodon spathula
- Peak season
- Spring (March–May)
- Length range
- 80–200 cm
- Weight range
- 5–60 kg
- Typical depth
- 2–15 m
Habitat
Large, free-flowing rivers and reservoirs in the Mississippi River basin. Prefers deep, slow pools.
Behavior
Filter feeder that swims with mouth open to strain plankton. An ancient species; does not take traditional baits.
Best techniques
- Snagging (where legal)
- Heavy weighted treble hooks in current
- Bow fishing (where legal)
