Species guide
How to catch Mississippi paddlefish
Polyodon spathula
freshwatergame fishPolyodontidae
The Mississippi paddlefish is a large, elongated freshwater fish recognized by its distinctive paddle-shaped snout. It feeds primarily by filter feeding on plankton in slow-flowing large rivers. This species is valued as a game fish for its size and unique appearance.
Where they live
Found in slow-flowing, deep waters of large freshwater rivers across North America and parts of Europe, typically deeper than 1.3 meters. Prefers environments rich in plankton to sustain filter feeding.
Typical size
Up to about 221 cm
What they eat
- plankton
Best baits
- plankton-based bait
Best lures
- plankton-resembling lures
How to fish for them
- trolling
- drift fishing
- bait fishing with plankton mimicry
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