Mark Your Calendars For Paddlefish Snag-and-release Days
North Dakota Game and Fish announced the state’s 2026 paddlefish snagging harvest season will close Friday, May 8, at 7 p.m. Central time to protect the long-term sustainability of the paddlefish population.
According to the department, the closure applies to any additional harvest of paddlefish during the regular season. Officials said the decision was made as part of ongoing management efforts aimed at maintaining a healthy paddlefish population in the state.
An extended snag-and-release season will begin May 9 and continue through May 15. During that period, anglers with unused paddlefish tags may continue snagging but must immediately release all fish caught. The department said anyone who has already harvested a paddlefish and used their tag is not allowed to participate in the extended snag-and-release period.
The additional snag-and-release season will be open in portions of the Missouri River near the confluence with the Yellowstone River. The open area includes the north shore from the Confluence boat ramp east, or downstream, to the pipeline crossing at river mile 1577. On the south shore, the open area extends from the Yellowstone River confluence east to the same pipeline crossing.
The department said paddlefish snagging during the extended season will only be allowed between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. Central time each day.
Officials also reminded anglers that the use or possession of a gaff during snag-and-release days is illegal under state regulations.
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