Paddlefish season to open Dec. 1 on Ozark Pool

Arkansas Game & Fish Commission

Paddlefish season to open Dec. 1 on Ozark Pool

In an emergency proclamation Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2007, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Director Scott Henderson approved an early opening date of Dec. 1 for commercial paddlefish harvest on the Ozark Pool of the Arkansas River.

During its October meeting, the Commission approved a new annual commercial paddlefish season of Dec. 1-March 31. That regulation will not go into effect until Jan. 1, requiring an emergency proclamation to begin the season this December.

Commercial anglers interested in harvesting paddlefish from Ozark Lock and Dam to Trimble Lock and Dam from Dec. 1, until the start of the statewide season, Jan. 1, must have a free, written permit from the AGFC. Permits are available through Bob Limbird at the AGFC’s Russellville Regional Office, (877) 967-7577. Anglers also must follow the 37-inch minimum length limit during this portion of the season.

For more information, contact Randy Zellers at (501) 223-6406 or e-mail rdzellers@agfc.state.ar.us.