Paddlefish Recipes

Yellowstone Caviar

For more information on paddlefishing or caviar contact Kim Trangmoe
at:

Paddlefishing Season

What Are Those Things?

Modern paddlefish (Polyodon Spathula) are classic examples of millions of years of ecological fine-tuning. Paddlefish have adapted remarkably to their environment since they were introduced into the Yellowstone River in 1963. They may be the oldest big-game animal surviving in North America!

Paddlefish skin is tough, smooth and scaleless except for the upper portion of its tail. The most striking feature of the paddler is its elongated paddle-shaped snout which is used as an antenna for detecting concentrations of food and helping the fish react to the changing water current. Adult paddlefish can weigh from 60 to 120 pounds! The state record paddlefish was 142 pounds, caught in 1973.

Where Do I Find One?

The Intake Diversion Dam 17 miles north of Glendive, Montana is famous for paddlefishing and the production of Yellowstone Caviar. Glendive is considered the "Paddlefish Capitol of the World" and draws over 3,000 anglers annually to this short stretch of the Yellowstone River.

The Intake fishing access site provides camping facilities, a boat ramp, drinking water, and picnic tables.  A concession stand is on site during paddlefish season from 7 A.M. until 9 P.M. daily, and serves meals, rents paddlefishing equipment, and sells fishing supplies.  Boat shuttle service is available for crossing the river or fishing downstream.  For more information on facilities or fishing, call the concessionaire at 406.687.3287 (687-EATS).

What Should I Bring?

It takes a special fishing skill and a heavy duty tackle to challenge this senior denizen of the river. Because paddlefish feed on microscopic organisms, they cannot be caught by conventional fishing methods. Live bait and lures are useless against these formidable foes...they must be snagged!

The necessary rigging is unique for river fishing:

• several 6/0 to 10/0 treble hooks
• 40-80# test line
• a heavy surf rod 8-12 feet long
• a heavy-duty salt-water spinning reel of star-drag reel
• 4-6 oz. weights

What If I Actually Catch One?

Despite the unconventional fishing methods, their prehistoric origins and rather homely appearance, paddlefish are an excellent tasting fish. They can be prepared as you would any other fish. A paddlefish can yield a large quantity of top-quality meat. The meat can be frozen, canned, poached, steamed, smoked, baked, or sliced into steaks and grilled. Enclosed below are a few recipes.

In recent years, paddlefish roe has been harvested, processed into caviar, and shipped from Glendive. Fisherman are encouraged to donate the roe to the Glendive Chamber of Commerce who, in turn, process the roe into world-class caviar. The proceeds from the venture are used to improve fisheries and recreation in Eastern Montana, as well as grants given to area organizations for historical and cultural projects. And here's the best part, if you donate your roe they will clean your paddlefish for you!

Are You Pulling My Leg?

No. Paddlefish season runs from May 15th through June 30th every year. You will need a Montana fishing license and a special paddlefish tag. Information on tags is on the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks site.