Angler Response to Harvest Regulations in Montana's Yellowstone River Paddlefish Fishery

Abstract

A written, 15-question survey of anglers snagging for paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) was conducted at a popular fishing site on the Yellowstone River, Montana. Its purpose was to obtain opinions and preferences on specific regulations, including the reduction in the annual bag limit from two to one fish, catch-and-release fishing, and on the possible implementation of a harvest quota for the stock. Questionnaires were completed by 258 snaggers over the six-week (May 15-June 30) fishing season in 1994. Snaggers were split (30% for, 44% against) in their opinions on whether the reduction to a one-fish bag limit was justified, and whether the paddlefish stock would benefit from the reduced bag limit. Seventy-three percent of all respondents favored the opportunity to catch and release paddlefish. Support for a harvest quota was not strong but of the three quota options presented (Tag Limitation, lnseason Closure, and a Five-Year Quota), support was strongest for lnseason Closure (44%) followed by Tag Limitation (25%). Results of this questionnaire have been used in conjunction with stock assessments to reduce the bag limit and establish catch-and-release periods in the fishery.