What is a Spoonbill Catfish (a.k.a. American Paddlefish)?
The spoonbill catfish, also known as the American paddlefish, was in existence over 40 million years before the dinosaurs and remains one of the most popular catfish today. Its unique snout makes it a favorite among fish lovers that enjoy a little bit of difference and appreciate a fish that is relatively easy to take care of.
Origin
The American paddlefish calls North America home. It can be found throughout the United States, particularly in the Southern region where the waters are nice and warm year-round. The Mississippi River is particularly popular for spoonbill catfish and has been for hundreds of years.
Endangered Species
The spoonbill catfish is considered an endangered species in specific parts of North America. These fish became popular in the early 1900s, leading to a massive harvest of them. This resulted in a severe decline in their numbers, and in several states making it illegal to harvest or fish for the American paddlefish. Currently, under ten states in the United States allow people to capture these precious fish.
Unfortunately, conservation efforts are combatted by the pressure on people to continue to harvest them. The eggs are worth a lot of money, which has resulted in the illegal harvesting of these fish. Conservation efforts now include groups combing riverbanks to report poachers to save the species.
In Nature
In nature, the spoonbill catfish can be found in parts of North America and surrounding areas where they can enjoy warmer waters. These catfish prefer long rivers with a slow current. They like to lazily swim about and are known to migrate hundreds of miles if necessary, making long rivers the perfect habitat for these fish. Although the American paddlefish is known as a freshwater fish, it can handle a mixture of both freshwater and saltwater for short periods as it migrates from one spot to the next.
In Captivity
American paddlefish are not popular as pets except for aquarists that are known for keeping monster fish aquariums. This is partially due to its size. The American paddlefish can grow quite large, meaning that an aquarium that could suit a monster fish is a necessity for pet owners. They are also known for consuming large amounts of food and may need fed several times a day. This can be inconvenient, but most fish owners find a way to make sure that their favorite pet has all the food it needs.
The American paddlefish has the unique look of an extended snout that most people find fascinating, some loveable characteristics and relatively easy temperament. It is delicious to eat if one can find a restaurant serving some, and its eggs will always be popular. It doesn’t matter whether a person enjoys eating fish, fishing for profit, or simply wants an addition to their new monster fish aquarium, the American paddlefish is the way to go. It will live for a long time when kept at an appropriate temperature and pH level, so aquarists can enjoy watching it swim for years.
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I caught one Saturday morning 10/22/22 on Lake Larto in Louisiana. On a 12 ft. Spider pole rig with 10 lb test line and a #1 gold Eagle hook. Took about 45 minutes to land it.We didn’t have a scale but estimated it to weight between 40 and 50 lbs. Released it after taking Pictures, it was unbelievable.