Freshwater
Alligator Gar
Atractosteus spatula
- Peak season
- Summer
- Length range
- 100–300 cm
- Weight range
- 5–130 kg
- Typical depth
- 0–10 m
Habitat
Large rivers, bayous, oxbow lakes, and backwaters in the southeastern US. Prefers slow, warm water with cover.
Behavior
Ancient armoured predator that ambushes prey near the surface. Can breathe air; often seen rolling at the surface.
Best techniques
- Rope lure (tangling in teeth)
- Live bait with delayed hookset
- Cut carp on bottom rig
- Bow fishing
