(Lewis) The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is reminding anglers that a special paddlefish fishing season runs from February 1 through April 30.
John Lorenzen, a fisheries biologist with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, says there is a quota of available fishing licenses. He says 950 licenses for Iowa residents, and 50 for non-residents.
According to John Lorensen, a fisheries biologist with the Iowa DNR, the Big Sioux River is limited to the area below the I-29 bridge. On the Missouri River, the season is open only in Iowa waters, from the confluence of the Big Sioux River south to the old Hamburg boat ramp. That area includes all backwaters, sloughs, and the confluence of any tributaries along that stretch of river.
Lorensen says anglers must have purchased a paddlefish tag during the open application period in addition to holding a valid Iowa fishing license. He also reminds anglers to review the regulations carefully, as there are special rules regarding hook size and where fishing is allowed.
In addition, paddlefish measuring between 35 and 45 inches must be released. Lorensen notes that paddlefish are measured differently than most fish, from the front of the eye to the fork of the tail.
