oscar
Species Facts

Science Name: Astronotus ocellatus
Ideal Temp: 75 to 85
World Record: 3 lbs. 8 ounces Fl.
Environment: lakes
Techniques: light tackle, fly fishing
Range: Florida
Description

Description - Young fish have wavy white and orange bars and spots on black head, body, and fins. The body and fins of adults are olive blue-green in color with large black blotches. A black spot surrounded by red is at base of upper caudal fin. The second dorsal, caudal, and anal fins are large and rounded. Some have orange or red on body.

Subspecies - It is a distinct species with no known subspecies.

Range - The distribution of oscars in Florida is restricted to the area south of Tampa. The native range of oscars lies within the Orinoco, La Plata, and Amazon River basins in South America.

Habitat - Marsh-type habitats with man-controlled water levels have the largest oscar populations although they are found in lesser numbers in most permanent aquatic habitats in southern peninsular Florida.

Spawning Habits - Oscars spawn when water temperatures range between 82 and 91 F. The preferred spawning site is a flat, solid surface parallel or slightly raised off the bottom. The female will lay up to 3,000 eggs and both parents care for the eggs and guard the young.

Feeding habits - Oscars are carnivorous preying on small fish, insects and amphibians.

Age and Growth - An average-sized oscar caught in the Everglades is 10 inches long and weighs 3/4 of a pound. A two-pound fish is considered large. Biologists do not know how long oscars typically live.

Sporting Qualities - They provide a hard-fighting, large panfish type fishery which is popular with many anglers. They will strike on a variety of live baits and artificial lures. Popular baits include cut fish, cut shrimp, crickets, and worms. Small jigs tipped with cut bait and small spinnerbaits are favorite artificial lures. Fly fishing is also a productive method.

Eating Qualities - White, flaky meat with good flavor.