Paddlefish snagging season has been extended at Chetopa to allow anglers to take advantage of an influx of the fish.

Recent rains have increased the flow of the Neosho River and the result has been a later-than-normal arrival of the fish.

Although the season could extend as late as May 31, officials may close the season prior to that if conditions deteriorate.

Normally, paddlefish snagging season is open between March 15 and May 15 at Chetopa.

Unusually dry and low flow conditions had suppressed the upstream migration of paddlefish during that two-month period, resulting in only poor or fair angler success.