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Bowfin

Bowfin

Bowfin are prehistoric fish dating back 150+ million years, making them true living fossils. They're highly adaptable predators that can breathe both air and water, allowing them to survive in low-oxygen conditions that would kill other fish.

Scientific Name: Amia calva

Physical Characteristics:
  • Wisconsin is home to what recent genetic research identifies as the northern strain (Amia ocellicauda), distinguished by vibrant green and blue coloration males display during spawning season.
  • These elongated, cylindrical fish typically run 5-10 pounds in Wisconsin's northwoods, though specimens exceeding the current state record have been documented, including a potential 13-pound fish.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Native to Wisconsin's waters.
  • Inhabit shallow, weedy, eutrophic lakes and backwaters of rivers, particularly areas with dense vegetation like cattails, lily pads, hydrilla, and grass beds.
  • Can be found in large shallow bays, connecting swamps, river mouths, and marinas.

Key Locations

  • Minocqua Chain of Lakes.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas with heavy vegetation - look for holes in grass mats, edges of hydrilla beds, and transitions from shallow to deeper water.
  • Focus on brush piles, weed beds, and backwater areas.
  • Early spring target shallow vegetated areas near marinas and river mouths.

Bowfin FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Spinnerbaits, soft plastic flukes, topwater frogs, jerkbaits, buzzbaits, live panfish, weedless chatterbaits with trailers, creature baits and jig-and-pigs for punching heavy cover, plastic worms fished Texas-rigged. For bait fishing, cut bluegill, shad, or other fish work better than live bait.

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

Best during spring through fall, with peak action from May through September. Early spring (March-April) offers excellent night fishing. May brings the best daytime action as water temperatures hit the mid-50s to low-60s. Summer heat (July-September) requires focusing on low-light periods.

How do you catch Bowfin in Wisconsin?

Use fresh cut bait or shrimp suspended under slip bobber rigs with minnows. Target with cut bait under floats over grass beds. Cover brush piles and weed beds with artificials. Sight fishing when possible. Watch for their distinctive dorsal fin undulation, which indicates feeding interest.

What do Bowfin eat?

Ambush predators feeding on fish, crayfish, amphibians, insects, and aquatic invertebrates. They use their acute senses of smell and vibration more than sight to locate prey. Bowfin rely heavily on scent.

Where do Bowfin live in Wisconsin?

Native to Wisconsin's waters. Inhabit shallow, weedy, eutrophic lakes and backwaters of rivers, particularly areas with dense vegetation like cattails, lily pads, hydrilla, and grass beds. Can be found in large shallow bays, connecting swamps, river mouths, and marinas.

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