Fish

Paddlefish

Paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) is a filter-feeding freshwater fish of North American rivers and reservoirs, recognised by its long paddle-like snout. Flesh is mild, pale, and moderately firm—closer to a lean white fish than to oily river catfish—and is sold as fillets or steaks where legal harvest and aquaculture allow. Roe is processed into a caviar-style product prized as a domestic alternative to sturgeon in some US markets. Grill, bake, or smoke fillets with simple seasoning; avoid overcooking lean portions. Wild stocks are regulated and sensitive—commercial availability depends on state and federal rules, with farmed or ranch-raised fish filling some demand. Confirm legal source. Fresh fish should smell clean and riverine, not muddy or sour; muddiness often reflects handling and habitat more than the species alone.