Iowa now selling snagging paddlefish licenses

Fishers looking to hook some snagging paddlefish on the Missouri or Big Sioux rivers may now apply for a special license in Iowa for the season that runs from March 1 through April 15.  

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is selling the licenses on a first-come, first-served basis until Jan. 31. To purchase the paddlefish license, you must already possess a standard Iowa fishing license.

The special licenses cost $22 for Iowa residents and $42 for nonresidents, and may be purchased through the Iowa DNR’s online license system or by calling the Iowa DNR. The special license, along with a tag and instructions, will be delivered to purchasers in early February.

During paddlefish season, license holders must have their tag with them while fishing.