Changes Proposed for the Paddlefish Snagging and Archery Seasons

PIERRE, S.D. - A South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission proposal could offer expanded opportunities for paddlefish anglers and archers.

The proposal would allow snagging of paddlefish on the Big Sioux River during the October paddlefish season below Gavins Point Dam. Currently, Iowa allows anglers to snag on the Big Sioux River up to the Interstate 29 Bridge. This rule change would allow South Dakota anglers to snag paddlefish in the Big Sioux River up to the Interstate 29 Bridge.

The proposal would also change the dates of the archery paddlefish season; making it earlier in the summer. This will allow archers a better chance to harvest paddlefish on the Missouri River downstream from Gavins Point Dam. The proposed season is for 30 consecutive days during the month of June. The current archery paddlefish season runs for 30 consecutive days; beginning on the second Saturday in July.

The Commission will finalize this proposal at their Oct. 1-2, 2015, meeting at the Spearfish Holiday Inn Convention Center. Written comments can be sent to wildinfo@state.sd.us. To be part of the official public record, comments must be received by 12 p.m. on Oct. 1 MDT. Please include your full name along with the city and state of residence. If you would like to comment in person, the public hearing will be held Oct.1, at 2 p.m. MDT.

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