LITTLE ROCK—As summer fast approaches, many will be heading to the beautiful lakes and rivers across the Natural State to enjoy time with family and friends.
While taking advantage of these outdoor opportunities, it’s important to remember to be safe, responsible, and mindful of federal laws that govern our public lands and waters. Failure to do so can lead to serious consequences, as evidenced by the recent conduct of four Arkansans now facing serious penalties for the illegal snagging of paddlefish.
In March 2025, four Arkansans pleaded guilty after being charged with multiple federal violations stemming from a three-year, multi-agency investigation led by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service into the illegal snagging of paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) from the Little Red River in the Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge located in White County.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Joe J. Volpe imposed the sentences on Matthew “Cole” Harken of Conway, Andrew Jennings of Searcy, Dakota Wilson of Russellville, and Steven Lawrence of Jacksonville, who all pleaded guilty to federal violations concerning the illegal taking and transport of 29 paddlefish over an approximate three-year period, resulting in fines and restitution totaling $14,190.00.
The investigation revealed that the men were illegally snagging the paddlefish to collect their eggs, which are commonly referred to as “roe.” Not unlike salmon, paddlefish are migratory in nature, traveling many miles to reach their spawning grounds every year. Paddlefish are also prehistoric, growing at slower rates, and a 40-pound paddlefish may be up to 50 years old. Paddlefish feed on plankton located in the water which makes them unable to be caught using conventional methods of fishing, such as bait and lures, requiring them to be snagged or netted. The Bald Knob National Wildlife Refuge contains areas where paddlefish migrate to spawn annually. During spawning season paddlefish are full of roe which is highly sought after and valuable as caviar both domestically and internationally.
