Photo: Cymothoa exigua / CC BY-SA 3.0 (via Wikimedia Commons)
Atractosteus spatula
Alligator Gar
Freshwater
About this species
A prehistoric, armor-scaled giant of southern US rivers, second only to sturgeon among North American freshwater fish. Its broad, toothy snout dispatches fish and waterfowl in sluggish backwaters. Heavy tackle with large cut bait and wire leaders is required.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
0 – 5 m
Habitat Spots
RiverLakeEstuary
Fishing Methods
BottomFloatTrolling
Bait & Rig
Large cut mullet, carp chunks, or whole gizzard shad on heavy tackle with a wire or braided rope leader.
Edibility & Taste
Firm, white flesh that is good fried or grilled, but the roe is toxic and the bony armor requires careful processing.
Similar Species
A broad, alligator-like double-rowed tooth snout and massive size distinguish alligator gar from all other gar species.
Record Weight
95 kg