National American Paddlefish Day is observed every March 9 to promote conservation efforts for the American paddlefish, the only surviving species of paddlefish. This day was initiated by the Shreveport Aquarium in 2019, located near Caddo Lake in Louisiana, where paddlefish once thrived before disappearing in the 1970s. The aquarium collaborates with the Caddo Lake Institute to rear and release paddlefish into the lake. Celebrations typically include the Paddlefish Festival, featuring educational displays, games, crafts, and the highlight of releasing paddlefish into Caddo Lake. The American paddlefish, native to the Mississippi River basin, faces threats from overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution, and is classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. To observe the day, individuals can learn about paddlefish, visit aquariums, donate to conservation organizations, or share information on social media using specific hashtags.