Florida gar

Lepisosteus platyrhincus

Family

Lepisosteidae

Max Length

132 cm

Max Weight

9.6 kg

IUCN Status

Water Type

freshwater

Fishing Spots

317

Overview

The Florida gar is a species of gar found in the US from the Savannah River and Ochlockonee River watersheds of Georgia and throughout peninsular Florida. Florida gar can reach a length over 3 ft (91 cm). The young feed on zooplankton and insect larvae, as well as small fish. Adults mainly eat fish, shrimp, and crayfish. Although edible, they are not popular as food. The roe is highly toxic to many animals, including humans and birds.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

Live Shad
A natural food source, highly effective.
Live Shiners
Hardy and readily available live bait.
Cut Bait (Shad or Mullet)
Strong scent attracts gar.
Large Goldfish
Bright color can trigger strikes.

Artificial Lures

Rapala Original Floater 07Crankbait
Floats over vegetation, triggers reaction strikes.
Buy
Mepps Aglia #3Spinner
Flash and vibration attract attention.
Buy
Zoom Trick WormSoft Plastic
Wacky rigged, slow presentation.
Buy
Johnson Silver MinnowSpoon
Weedless spoon for fishing in heavy cover.
Buy
Clouser MinnowFly
Effective when sight fishing in clear water.
Buy

Techniques

Florida gar have bony mouths; use a strong hook and set it hard multiple times. Use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs.

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Where to Find Florida gar

Florida, United States270 spots Georgia, United States7 spots Alabama, United States5 spots Louisiana, United States4 spots Illinois, United States2 spots Massachusetts, United States1 spots South Dakota, United States1 spots South Carolina, United States1 spots Texas, United States1 spots Maryland, United States1 spots

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Florida gar?+

Popular baits for Florida gar include Live Shad, Live Shiners, Cut Bait (Shad or Mullet), Large Goldfish, Rapala Original Floater 07. Tip: Florida gar have bony mouths; use a strong hook and set it hard multiple times. Use wire leaders to prevent bite-offs.

Where can I catch Florida gar?+

Florida gar can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Florida, United States; Georgia, United States; Alabama, United States. WikiCatch lists 317 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Florida gar get?+

Florida gar (Lepisosteus platyrhincus) can reach up to 132.000005 cm in length and 9.6 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.

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