Paddlefish and Research Center
• The primary functions of the paddlefish RPC are to collect important biological data for the Wildlife Department’s paddlefish management plan, process paddlefish meat for anglers and salvage paddlefish eggs.
• The RPC is open during prime paddlefish snagging (Feb 15 - May 15), and anglers can bring their catch to the center for cleaning and processing. They will take home meat that has been safely cleaned and packaged.
• This is the first venture of its kind for the Wildlife Department, but similar Paddlefish Research have been successful in other states (Montana and North Dakota).
Why is this good for anglers?
• Participating anglers get their fish cleaned for free.
Additionally, this project provides ample and varied opportunities for
anglers to learn about the research and participate in crafting new
regulations.
• Funds derived from the program go back to the resource along
with projects such as improved
fishing access, paddlefish management, angler education, etc.
• Wildlife Department personnel are available to offer the latest
paddlefishing information to anglers as well as to offer a pick-up
service to anglers who have caught a paddlefish and want to send it to
the center. The pick-up and cleaning is free.
• Surveys performed in top paddlefishing locations in Oklahoma showed
that anglers largely supported the idea of a paddlefish research and
caviar processing center. About 99 percent of those surveyed said they
would support such a venture, and about 92 percent said they would
likely participate by having their paddlefish processed at the center.
• The Wildlife Department is confident that the Paddlefish RPC is a biologically sound and fiscally responsible
project.
The Paddlefish Research and Processing Center is located at Twin Bridges State Park. A boat and two trucks will pick up fish from bank and boat anglers. To arrange for a pick up, contact the center at (918) 542-9422. For other questions, call Paddlefish Program Coordinator Keith Green at (918) 533-7113 or Biologist Brent Gordon at (918) 686-3673.
