Shortnose Gar
Shortnose Gar are not native to Michigan but have established populations in the Great Lakes basin since first appearing in Wisconsin waters in 1962, likely reaching the region via the Wisconsin-Fox Canal connecting the Mississippi River basin to the Fox River system.
These primitive freshwater fish are efficient ambush predators that are well-suited to certain Michigan waters.
Scientific Name: Lepisosteus platostomus
- These primitive freshwater fish are characterized by their elongated, torpedo-like bodies covered in interlocking rhomboidal ganoid scales, with brown to olive-green coloration above fading to yellowish sides and whitish bellies.
- They typically reach 24-35 inches and 5-6 pounds, though specimens up to 88cm have been recorded.
Fishing in Michigan
Lake Huron
Flat River
Muskegon River
Shiawassee River
Maple River
Grand River
Saginaw River
Halls Lake
Tittabawassee River
Tubbs Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Great Lakes basin.
- They prefer slow-moving or calm waters including backwaters, oxbow lakes, quiet creek pools, and areas with submerged vegetation or logs.
Key Locations
- Key Michigan waters include the western basin of Lake Erie, Muskegon Lake, the lower Grand River, the Maple River, and inland lakes like Wabasis Lake and Kent Lake for Master Angler-sized specimens.
Specific Spots
- Look for them in deep river holes or deep water in inland lakes, typically suspended 5-10 feet below the surface.
Shortnose Gar FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Shortnose Gar in Michigan?
Rope can replace hooks on in-line spinners, spinnerbait skirts, or jig bucktails, or be tied as simple hookless flies.
What flies work for Shortnose Gar in Michigan?
Size 8-10 red squirmy worm hybrid flies with tungsten beadheads, and tube flies with circle hooks pinned 4-6 inches from the head.
How do you catch Shortnose Gar in Michigan?
Use nylon rope or twine that will tangle in their teeth - test your material by running a comb through it; if the comb teeth catch the fibers, so will gar teeth. Retrieve very slowly - just fast enough to keep the lure moving, as gar cannot keep up with erratic or fast-moving presentations.
What do Shortnose Gar eat?
Shortnose Gar are efficient ambush predators that feed primarily on fish, crayfish, and insects, with juveniles consuming more invertebrates than any other gar species.
Where do Shortnose Gar live in Michigan?
Great Lakes basin. They prefer slow-moving or calm waters including backwaters, oxbow lakes, quiet creek pools, and areas with submerged vegetation or logs.
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