Longnose Gar
Longnose Gar are among Mississippi's most primitive freshwater fish species, having existed for 100 million years. These prehistoric predators are highly adaptable and found throughout Mississippi.
Scientific Name: Lepisosteus osseus
- Distinguished by their elongated, torpedo-shaped bodies and exceptionally long, narrow snouts filled with needle-sharp teeth - their snout is more than twice as long as the rest of their head.
- They typically measure 3-5 feet in length and weigh 20-40 pounds, with females growing larger and living longer than males (up to 22 years versus 11-17 years for males).
- Their coloration varies from dark brown to olive green on the back and sides with white bellies, featuring distinctive black spots on fins and body sides.
- They have tough ganoid scales.
Fishing in Mississippi
Pearl River
Yazoo River
Mississippi River
Leaf River
Bouie River
Ross R Barnett Reservoir
Lake Castle
Big Black River
Pelahatchie Creek
Lake Dockery
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found throughout Mississippi in medium to large rivers, oxbow lakes, reservoirs, and estuaries.
Key Locations
- Target specific Mississippi waters like Grenada Lake (especially the spillway area), Sardis Reservoir, and the state's larger river systems.
Specific Spots
- Target slow-moving or stagnant waters including backwater areas, oxbow lakes, reservoir coves, and calm sections of rivers.
- Look for them sunning themselves near the surface.
Longnose Gar FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Longnose Gar in Mississippi?
Small live baits like minnows or cut bait. Popular artificial lures include small jigs, spinner baits, and spoons.
What flies work for Longnose Gar in Mississippi?
Streamers 3-5 inches long. The most effective approach uses rope flies - tie unbraided nylon rope to create a 6-9 inch fly that tangles in their teeth rather than relying on hooks.
When is the best time to fish for Longnose Gar in Mississippi?
Peak action from July through August on hot, clear, sunny days. During spawning period (May-early June), avoid targeting them as they congregate for reproduction.
How do you catch Longnose Gar in Mississippi?
Cast perpendicular to the fish and retrieve slowly past their nose. When they strike, let them chew on the fly for several seconds before applying steady pressure - don't set the hook traditionally as you'll likely pull it free from their bony mouth.
What do Longnose Gar eat?
These ambush predators primarily feed on fish, particularly shad and sunfishes, using their long snout to impale prey before swallowing it head-first. They can also consume vegetation occasionally.
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