PADDLEFISH
PREHISTORIC GAME FISH
The
Yellowstone Intake Diversion Dam, 17 miles north of Glendive, MT, has become the
“Paddlefishing and Caviar Capital.” From May 15 through June 30, paddlefish
run in these murky, roily waters of the Yellowstone River. To fish, besides your
regular license, you need a paddlefish tag (this is for a limit of one fish) and
heavy duty tackle - 6/0 to 10/0 treble hooks, 40-80# test line, a heavy surf rod
8-12 ft., a heavy duty salt water spinning reel or star-drag reel, and 4-6 oz.
weights. Adult paddlefish may weigh from 40 - 100 pounds and are very good to
eat.
Since
1990, paddlefish roe has been collected by the Glendive Chamber of Commerce and
Agriculture. The caviar is processed in Glendive and shipped to caviar buyers
where it finds its way to exclusive restaurants and cruise line diners. Proceeds
are used for research and improvement of fishing access sites by FW & P.
Other profits have benefited historical, cultural and recreational projects in
the Custer Country region.
