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Bowfin

Bowfin

Bowfin are ancient native fish found throughout Indiana in marshes, lakes, and backwater habitats of large rivers associated with vegetation.

These prehistoric predators are distinguished by their elongated, nearly-cylindrical bodies with distinctive long dorsal fins extending from mid-back to tail.

Scientific Name: Amia calva

Also known as dogfish, grindle, cypress trout, swamp muskie

Physical Characteristics:
  • They feature mottled olive-green coloration with pale green bellies, scaleless heads, and large mouths filled with sharp teeth.
  • Males display a black eyespot with yellow-orange border at the tail base, while females typically lack this marking.
  • Adults typically measure 15-27 inches and weigh 1-5 pounds, though they can reach up to 19 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout Indiana in marshes, lakes, and backwater habitats of large rivers associated with vegetation.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on marshes, backwaters of large rivers, and lake margins with vegetation.
  • Look for bowfin around submerged logs, brush piles, and holes in weed mats during sunny conditions.

Bowfin FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Bowfin in Indiana?

Various live baits including minnows, crayfish, worms, and frogs. Artificial lures effective for largemouth bass also work well. Weedless chatterbaits with trailers, spinnerbaits, topwater frogs, soft plastic crayfish patterns, and finesse jigs around structure.

What flies work for Bowfin in Indiana?

Effective fly patterns include size 2 Conehead Zuddlers, Conehead Bow River Buggers, and Bass Master flies in black, crayfish colors, yellow, and white, approximately 3 inches long.

How do you catch Bowfin in Indiana?

Use stop-and-go retrieves with topwater lures to give bowfin time to react. For bottom fishing, try Texas-rigged creature baits. Traditional lure fishing should focus on vibration and noise.

What do Bowfin eat?

These ambush predators primarily feed at night in shallow water, with juveniles eating insects and microscopic animals until reaching 4 inches, then switching to a fish-based diet supplemented by crayfish, frogs, mollusks, and aquatic insects.

Where do Bowfin live in Indiana?

Found throughout Indiana in marshes, lakes, and backwater habitats of large rivers associated with vegetation.

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  1. 01 · Species map filter

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Indiana licenses and regulations

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