Apply for paddlefish permits by April 1 to participate in the unique season. Applications are easy online or in-person at local FWP offices or authorized retailers. Don't miss out!

A simple question about targeting paddlefish on the Yellowstone turned into a preseason reality check: paddlefishing isn’t casual. From training your shoulders and core to dialing in the cast-sweep-repeat rhythm, packing real fuel, and following Montana FWP regulations and mandatory reporting rules, here are the beginner tips experienced anglers keep repeating.