Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to aqueous cationic polyacrylamide (CPAM) dispersions, methods of preparation and methods of use thereof, particularly in the paper industry. For example, these CPAM dispersions may be used in any of the following: (i) sticky control in paper manufacturing (ii) fixing in paper manufacturing, (ii) sludge dewatering, and/or (iii) oil-water separation. Moreover, the present disclosure generally pertains to CPAM dispersions, wherein such CPAM dispersions are aqueous dispersions which are shelf stable at room temperature, methods of preparation and methods of use thereof in papermaking applications and in products such as paper-based products. The disclosed CPAM dispersions may be used as retention aids in papermaking processes, may increase retention of starch to a formed paper web and/or board web, and may provide increased dry strength to paper-based products.