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American Eel

American Eel

American Eel in Missouri are exclusively female, as males remain in brackish coastal waters while only females migrate to inland freshwater systems.

These snake-like fish have elongated, muscular bodies covered in thick mucus and can reach 3-5 feet in length, with the largest Missouri specimens recorded at 37 inches and 4. 5 pounds.

Scientific Name: Anguilla rostrata

Physical Characteristics:
  • Snake-like fish have elongated, muscular bodies covered in thick mucus and can reach 3-5 feet in length, with the largest Missouri specimens recorded at 37 inches and 4.5 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Occur in moderate to large streams with continuous flow and moderately clear water throughout the state.

Key Locations

  • Mississippi River system, Current River, Meramec River, Gasconade River, Missouri River, Cape Girardeau area.

Specific Spots

  • Deep pools around cover such as logs, boulders, and rocky substrates.
  • Focus on deep pools with rocky substrates, logs, and boulder cover.
  • Dams are productive locations as they concentrate migrating eels.
  • Rocky bedrock areas.

American Eel FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for American Eel in Missouri?

Nightcrawlers, chicken livers, small pieces of oily cutbait, dead fish, maggots, insect larvae, small minnows, and herring.

When is the best time to fish for American Eel in Missouri?

Best fishing occurs during warmer months when water temperatures are above 41°F, as eels become inactive in colder water.

How do you catch American Eel in Missouri?

Employ slip rigs and drift rigs similar to catfish techniques. Cast bait rigs to shallow flats adjacent to deep water in ponds and lakes, or target riffles at the heads of deep holes in rivers.

What do American Eel eat?

Opportunistic nocturnal predators feeding on crayfish, aquatic insects, small fish, worms, mollusks, and crustaceans.

Where do American Eel live in Missouri?

Occur in moderate to large streams with continuous flow and moderately clear water throughout the state.

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