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Longnose Gar

Longnose Gar

Longnose gar are large, cylindrical fish with long beak-like snouts and rounded tails, distinguished by their hard diamond-shaped ganoid scales that create effective armor.

This native species is near the northern edge of their Atlantic coast range and designated as 'In Need of Conservation' due to their restricted distribution.

These 'living fossils' possess unique characteristics including ganoid scales, an abbreviated heterocercal tail, and a highly vascularized swim bladder that functions as a primitive lung, allowing them to breathe air and survive in low-oxygen waters.

Scientific Name: Lepisosteus osseus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Maryland longnose gar typically measure 3-4 feet though can reach 6 feet, with olive to gray coloration above and white/silvery below, featuring large black spots and a dusky brown midlateral stripe.
  • They have hard diamond-shaped ganoid scales, long beak-like snouts, rounded tails, and sharp teeth and rough scales.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Maryland, they're found in tidal tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay.
  • They prefer slow-moving or stagnant waters with vegetation, stone outcrops, or downed trees.

Key Locations

  • Potomac, Pocomoke, Nanticoke, Wicomico, and Choptank Rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Target shallow, weedy areas around structure like vegetation, downed trees, or stone outcrops.

Longnose Gar FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Longnose Gar in Maryland?

Effective flies include bucktail streamers, rope flies (though these complicate release), or any 3-5 inch streamer patterns fished just under the surface.

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

Hot summer months (July-August) when water temperatures reach 70-80°F, with peak activity from July 1-April 14. Avoid fishing during spawning season (April 15-June 30) when they're protected with reduced creel limits.

How do you catch Longnose Gar in Maryland?

Traditional methods include sight-fishing with bow or spear, suspending bait just below the surface in shallow areas, or using frayed nylon rope as a hookless lure that tangles in their teeth. Cast beyond and ahead of visible fish, retrieving slowly as gar will follow before striking.

What do Longnose Gar eat?

They're apex predators feeding voraciously on small crustaceans and fish including perch, sunfish, and menhaden.

Where do Longnose Gar live in Maryland?

In Maryland, they're found in tidal tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay. They prefer slow-moving or stagnant waters with vegetation, stone outcrops, or downed trees.

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