Species guide
How to catch Alligator gar
Atractosteus spatula
freshwaterbrackishgame fishLepisosteidae
The alligator gar is a large, elongated freshwater and brackish water fish known for its formidable size and prehistoric appearance. It is a top predator that hunts various aquatic animals and is prized by anglers for sport. Native to North America, this species can grow exceptionally large, making it a challenging catch.
Where they live
Found in freshwater and brackish environments across North America, alligator gars inhabit shallow waters where they hunt actively.
Typical size
Up to about 305 cm
What they eat
- fish
- aquatic animals
Best baits
- large live baitfish
- cut bait
Best lures
- large surface plugs
- spinnerbaits
How to fish for them
- casting
- trolling
- bottom fishing
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