Being the second largest river in the North American Continent, Mississippi is one of the popular commercial waterways. Though there are many other significant details connected to this River. These days it is a high demand for the recreational activities available here. It spans around 2350 miles across the continental United States to the Gulf of Mexico. A surprising number of 250 varieties of fish can be found here. Some of the popular fish varieties found here include the American Paddlefish, Bass, Bluegill, Eel, Herring, Common Carp and so on.
Also called as the Polyodon Spathula American Paddlefish is one of the amazing fish varieties that is found in Mississippi. Snagging is the best method to catch hold of this variety of fish. Since, they filter feeding in nature it is difficult to use worms or small fish varieties as bait. They can be ideally caught with three-part hook and they are known for their battling nature. So, one needs to exercise caution while looking for American Paddlefish. They also relatively weigh more.
The ideal time to look for this variety is from Mid-March to the end of April. Deep holes are ideal hideaway places of Paddlefish. The flow of water and temperature levels also has to be considered when looking for Paddlefish. When there is an increase in the temperature this variety is known to have an upstream movement resulting in fewer numbers. One favorite variety that those interested in fishing is ideally the American Paddlefish and with the right techniques it is achievable after all offering a delightful and unforgettable experience.
The unique quality of this species is the snout that is also called as rostrum. They are migratory in nature and it grows up to 2.5 meters ranging from 18 to 7 kg in weight. Some large Paddlefish weigh around 199 kg which is a stunning factor. The eggs of female paddlefish reportedly weigh around 9.1 kg. Growth of American paddlefish significantly happens around its first year, though the growth rate may differ as per the availability of food for its consumption.
Though largely found in the Mississippi region, these can also be found in Missouri and Osage rivers. Construction of dams and unnatural blockages has reduced the population and existence of Paddlefish in areas where it was found earlier like the Great Lakes and Canada. At present this variety can be found across the 22 states of the Mississippi River region.
Though American Paddlefish is a freshwater breed, they also have the capacity to live salty water. Generally these are deep water fishes and are ideally found 6 meters below the sea level. They also survive well in places where the water current is low. During the breeding period they tend to move towards sandy and gravel filled areas. The American Paddlefish’s lifespan is relatively long enough, spanning across 20 to 30 years.
Using their electroreceptors they are able to find zooplanktons under water. Their diet includes copepods, nymphs, microscopic plants and cladocerans. They are known for their filter feeding.