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Bowfin

Bowfin

Bowfin are an ancient, prehistoric fish species native to eastern North America, representing one of only two surviving species from a group that first appeared 250 million years ago.

Often called 'living fossils,' they're aggressive ambush predators known for their powerful fighting ability, thick skulls that make them difficult to hook, and rows of sharp teeth.

Also known as mudfish, dogfish, grindle, swamp trout

Physical Characteristics:
  • They typically grow 20-26 inches and weigh 6-10 pounds, though they can reach over 20 pounds.
  • During spawning season in late spring, males develop bright green coloration.
  • They have thick skulls and rows of sharp teeth.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Demersal freshwater piscivores that prefer vegetated sloughs, lowland rivers and lakes, swamps, and backwater areas with heavy cover.

Key Locations

  • Lower Missouri-Crooked and Lower Missouri-Moreau watersheds, Missouri River system.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas with cattails, lily pads, fallen timber, and other heavy structure in shallow to medium depths.

Bowfin FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Topwater frogs (especially effective in spring), chatterbaits and spinnerbaits worked slowly through vegetation, plastic worms, and craw-pattern soft plastics punched through heavy cover. Cut bait is highly effective due to their strong sense of smell - try pieces of fish, crayfish, nightcrawlers, or minnows.

What flies work for Bowfin in Missouri?

Large crayfish imitations (Conehead Zuddlers, Bow River Buggers, crawfish patterns in black, olive, or orange), baitfish streamers (Game Changers in brown, black, or green with flash), and dragonfly nymph patterns.

When is the best time to fish for Bowfin in Missouri?

Fish during summer and fall when they're most active, avoiding late spring spawning periods.

How do you catch Bowfin in Missouri?

Present flies with a hop-and-pause retrieve or vertical jigging around structure. Work lures slowly through vegetation. Use cut bait under a bobber rig.

What do Bowfin eat?

Feed primarily on crayfish (which can comprise 60-80% of their diet), fish including sunfish and catfish, aquatic insects like dragonflies, frogs, and mollusks.

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Explore other species

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Missouri licenses and regulations

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