Fishing For Paddlefish
In most of its range the paddlefish is a protected species, and fishing for paddlefish is illegal in many areas. Any paddlefish caught accidentally should be released unharmed as quickly as possible. However, a few states still allow sport fishing for paddlefish. Because paddlefish are filter feeders, they do not take conventional lures. Taking paddlefish is done with a bow and arrow, a spear, or by snagging (deliberately foul-hooking the fish in the fins or tail). Snagging is the usual method.
Poachers also use these methods to target paddlefish in areas where paddlefish fishing is not legal. Suspect paddlefish fishing activity can be reported to fish and wildlife officers who will verify legality. Some jurisdictions pay a financial reward to citizens whose report leads to prosecution of a poacher. One example is the Iowa DNR, and their Turn In Poachers (TIP) Program which was started in August 1985. The private TIP organization was established by concerned sportsmen and women under the guidance of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Bureau. Both groups recognized the need for an added dimension to fish and game law enforcement in the State of Iowa to aid in the fight against poaching.
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—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
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—Willa Cather (1876–1947)