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Longnose Gar

Longnose Gar

Longnose Gar are prehistoric predators found in South Dakota's warm water habitats, particularly the Missouri River system and its reservoirs.

Scientific Name: Lepisosteus osseus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish have distinctive olive brown to green, torpedo-shaped bodies armored with ganoid scales and elongated jaws forming needle-like snouts nearly three times the length of their heads.
  • They possess rows of sharp, cone-shaped teeth and can breathe both air and water through a specialized swim bladder, allowing them to thrive in low-oxygen environments.
  • They can live 15-20 years and reach lengths of 28-48 inches, with some specimens approaching 6 feet.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Longnose Gar inhabit the Missouri River valley, including Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and Lake Francis Case, as well as the lower reaches of tributary rivers like the Big Sioux, Vermillion, James, Niobrara, White, and Cheyenne rivers.

Key Locations

  • Target the Missouri River reservoirs including Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and Lake Francis Case, as well as the Missouri River valley sections.
  • Longnose Gar inhabit the Missouri River valley, including Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and Lake Francis Case, as well as the lower reaches of tributary rivers like the Big Sioux, Vermillion, James, Niobrara, White, and Cheyenne rivers.

Specific Spots

  • They prefer areas with slow-moving water, backwater bays, areas near downed trees, stone outcrops, and vegetation.
  • Look for them in backwater bays, areas with less than 6 feet of water, around emergent vegetation, pads, wood structures, and near tributary mouths.

Longnose Gar FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Longnose Gar in South Dakota?

Effective lures include shallow-running crankbaits 3-4 inches long in bright colors, jigs, spinner baits, and spoons. Live bait works exceptionally well - use small minnows, cut bait, or live shiners.

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

The best time to target Longnose Gar in South Dakota is during the warm months from May through August, with June being peak season when water temperatures reach 70-80°F.

How do you catch Longnose Gar in South Dakota?

The key challenge is hooking them due to their bony mouths - use treble hooks and make firm strip sets rather than trout sets. A sideways hook set works better than an upward motion, improving your hookup ratio to about 50%. Fish slowly near the surface and be patient, as Longnose Gar can be selective.

What do Longnose Gar eat?

These apex predators feed primarily on fish (98% of their diet), with gizzard shad, shiners, and various minnows being common prey. They're most active at night and feed opportunistically on whatever fish species are available.

Where do Longnose Gar live in South Dakota?

Longnose Gar inhabit the Missouri River valley, including Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and Lake Francis Case, as well as the lower reaches of tributary rivers like the Big Sioux, Vermillion, James, Niobrara, White, and Cheyenne rivers.

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