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Shortnose Gar

Shortnose Gar

Shortnose Gar represent the only gar species found in Wyoming. These primitive fish are prehistoric-looking freshwater predators.

Scientific Name: Lepisosteus platostomus

Physical Characteristics:

These primitive fish have elongated, torpedo-shaped bodies armored with interlocking diamond-shaped ganoid scales and feature a distinctive elongated head with one row of sharp, conical teeth.

They typically reach 24-35 inches in length and can weigh up to 6 pounds, with some specimens reaching up to 88 cm.

Shortnose Gar are distinguished from other gar species by lacking the long snout of longnose gar, the markings of spotted gar, and the dual tooth rows of alligator gar.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Limited distribution primarily in the Missouri River drainage system. They inhabit calm backwaters, oxbow lakes, large quiet pools, and slow-moving sections of large rivers, showing higher tolerance for turbid water than other gar species.

Key Locations

Wyoming's large rivers and backwaters, Missouri River drainage system

Specific Spots

Focus on calm backwater areas of rivers, oxbow lakes, and large quiet pools with vegetation or submerged logs. Target areas with structure like downed logs, weed lines, and drop-offs where they ambush prey.

Shortnose Gar FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Shortnose Gar in Wyoming?

For bait, use cut bait, live minnows, crayfish, and various insects. Lure options include spoons, spinner baits.

What flies work for Shortnose Gar in Wyoming?

Flies - particularly small patterns that take advantage of their opportunistic feeding behavior rather than large presentations.

When is the best time to fish for Shortnose Gar in Wyoming?

Target during summer months when water temperatures exceed 75°F. Avoid fishing during their April-June spawning period when they're focused on reproduction rather than feeding. Early morning and evening can be productive when gar surface to breathe, creating visible targets for sight fishing approaches.

How do you catch Shortnose Gar in Wyoming?

Effective techniques include drift fishing, trolling, still fishing, fly fishing, bait casting, and spin casting. Strip set with maximum force when using flies.

What do Shortnose Gar eat?

These ambush predators primarily feed on fish but are highly opportunistic, also consuming crayfish, insects, and other invertebrates - young gar feed on zooplankton and insect larvae until reaching 1.25 inches when fish enter their diet.

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