One of the changes in regulations for the paddlefish season this year in western Iowa is the lifting of the restrictions that allows people to keep so-called rough fish that are snagged in the process. Fisheries biologist Ryan Hupfeld says the surveys they took following the paddlefish season singled out one particular fish.

Hupfeld says allowing the taking of the Asian carp in the paddlefish season could help cut their populations.

You have until January 7th to buy a paddlefishing license. The season on the Big Sioux and Missouri River opens February 4th and runs through April 30th. A resident paddlefish license sells for 22 dollars and you must have a valid Iowa fishing license to buy the special license.