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Longnose Gar

Longnose Gar

Longnose Gar in Georgia are prehistoric fish that are apex predators. They can breathe both air and water through a specialized swim bladder, allowing them to survive in low-oxygen environments.

Physical Characteristics:
  • Olive-brown to green torpedo-shaped bodies, elongated jaws forming needle-like snouts nearly three times their head length, and diamond-shaped ganoid scales that provide armor-like protection.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout Georgia's diverse waterways.

Key Locations

  • Flint River, Altamaha River, Ocmulgee River, Suwannee River, Lake Seminole, Oconee River system, Coosa River near Rome.

Specific Spots

  • Prefer sluggish pools, backwaters, weedy areas, and areas around structure like downed trees and vegetation.
  • Focus on the Flint River for its clear waters and abundant gar population, the Altamaha River for longnose gar in slow-moving sections, Lake Seminole around vegetation and underwater structures, and the Ocmulgee and Suwannee Rivers in deeper pools and slack waters.
  • Target areas with structure like brush piles, fallen trees, weedy cover, and shallow flats dropping into deeper water.

Longnose Gar FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Longnose Gar in Georgia?

Topwater plugs (baitfish-imitation plugs), live baits like shiners, small catfish, or cut bait under floats.

What flies work for Longnose Gar in Georgia?

Rope flies made from unbraided nylon that tangle in their teeth, treble hook trailer flies with streamers like bucktail patterns.

When is the best time to fish for Longnose Gar in Georgia?

Summer months, particularly July and August when water temperatures reach 70-90°F, offer peak longnose gar fishing in Georgia. Spawning occurs from late April to early July when water temperatures reach 68°F - a time to avoid targeting them.

How do you catch Longnose Gar in Georgia?

For fly fishing, cast the hookless fly near surfacing gar and let them chew for several seconds before setting. Topwater plugs work excellently when sight-fishing - cast baitfish-imitation plugs in front of visible gar and keep the lure motionless except for minor twitches until they strike.

What do Longnose Gar eat?

Primarily feed on small fish including shad, bullhead catfish, bluegill, shiners, and menhaden, with juveniles consuming small crustaceans and insect larvae.

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