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 Paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) Commonly called "Spoonbills,” are a cartilaginous cousin to sturgeons Paddle fish is found in the Mississippi River and its tributaries (Tennessee, Alabama and Missouri Rivers) as well as China. A primitive species the paddlefish is distinguished by its long paddle like snout and can reach a length of 8 feet weighing up to 200 pounds. Today most caught average 4 feet long and 20 pounds. Except for a small patch of scales on its tail, the paddlefish is smooth skinned. The meat of a paddlefish resembles the meat of a sturgeon, very firm with a texture more like beef than fish. It is good baked, grilled of smoked. The Paddlefish produces caviar that is smaller and has a more crunchy texture than its Caspian Sea relatives.
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