bowfin
Species Facts

Science Name: Amia calva
Other Names: mudfish, mud pike, dogfish, grindle, blackfish, cottonfish, swamp bass, cypress trout
World Record: 21 lbs. 8 ounces SC
Environment: lakes
Techniques: light tackle
Range: Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana
Description

Description - The bowfin is the only living representative of an ancient family of fishes. It has an air-bladder which functions somewhat like a lung, and they are often seen near the surface of the water gulping mouthfuls of air. They are easily recognized by its flattened head; long, stout body; large mouth full of small, sharp teeth; long dorsal fin that extends along most of the back; and rounded tail. The pelvic fins are set far back on the belly near the middle of the body and the pectoral fins are low on the sides so that the overall appearance is one of three sets of fins in a row; the pectorals behind the head, the pelvics near the midbody, and the anal fin near the tail. Also, two short tube-like barbels are located near the nostrils. The body is olive-green above, shading to pale yellow or cream on the belly. Several dark brown, horizontal bars are often evident on the cheeks. Males have a dark spot with a bright orange halo, on the upper part of the tail fin. The spot is absent or inconspicuous on females.

Subspecies - There are no known subspecies

Habitat - Prefers swamps, sloughs and pools, backwaters of lowland streams. Usually found near vegetation. They live in warm, poorly oxygenated waters that are uninhabitable to most fishes.

Spawning Habits - Spawning generally occurs during the spring. Males clear out a nesting area among heavy aquatic vegetation. The eggs are laid at night by one or more females. The males guard the eggs and protect the young. The eggs hatch in six to 10 days and the larvae attach themselves to the substrate with an adhesive organ on the tip of their nose. The young begin to fend for themselves when about one and one-half inches long, but remain well hidden in heavy vegetation until they are about 10 inches in length.

Feeding Habits - About 80 percent of their diet consists of fish, with crayfish being the second most dominant food item. They stalk their prey using their senses of smell and sight.

Age and Growth - Growth is very rapid. Bowfin may grow to over three feet long and weigh over 15 pounds. Although reported to live for 25 to 30 years in captivity, bowfin seldom live longer than nine years in the wild.

Sporting Qualities - Bowfin are caught often by sport fishermen, but are considered nuisances. Many anglers fishing for bass have been surprised to find that a bowfin has taken their lure. While it will strike topwater and deep-running artificials, it is most often caught in the spring and early summer on minnows, worms, frogs, crayfish or cut bait. It is an excellent fighter, better than some highly rated game fish.

Eating Quality - The flesh is soft and jelly-like, but it is good to eat if prepared properly. Three methods of serving are smoked, fried as patties after dipping in egg and bread crumbs, and stewed.

Tips for Fishing

Indeed, some anglers relish the thought of hooking a bowfin. Relative to consumption, bowfins are typically considered a rough fish rather than one for the table.