Science Name: | Lepisosteus spatula |
Other Names: | gar, garfish, garpike, gater gar |
World Record: | 279 lbs. Rio Grande River |
Environment: | river, lake |
Techniques: | bow fishing |
Range: | Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina |
Description
Gar have traditionally been considered rough fish by the majority of anglers. However, for a relatively few mavericks gar fishing may be quite an exciting and enjoyable sport. In Texas, alligator gar have been captured up to 279 pounds by rod and reel anglers, and over 300 pounds by trotliners.
Where to Find
Alligator gar are present in the Gulf of Mexico coastal plain from the Econfina
River in west Florida west and south to Veracruz, Mexico. The species range
extends north in the Mississippi River basin to the lower reaches of the
Missouri and Ohio rivers. An isolated population also occurs in Nicaragua.
Habitat
They appear to spawn in the spring beginning sometime in May. Eggs are deposited
in shallow water. Alligator gar are usually found in slow sluggish waters,
although running water seems to be necessary for spawning. Young fish may
consume insects.
Feeding Habits
Adults feed primarily on fish, but will also take waterfowl. The species is able
to tolerate greater salinities than other gar species and feeds heavily on
marine catfish when available.