Gar

Lepisosteus osseus

Species Overview

Physical Characteristics

The Longnose Gar is one of the most distinctive fish in Fox Chain O’Lakes with its prehistoric appearance. The body is extremely long and cylindrical, resembling a torpedo. The head features an elongated, beak-like snout that comprises about half the head length, lined with numerous sharp teeth.

The ganoid scales are hard, non-overlapping, and diamond-shaped, providing armor-like protection. Coloration is olive-brown to greenish on the back, transitioning to silvery-white on the belly. The dorsal and anal fins are positioned far back on the body, near the rounded tail fin.

Fishing Information

Size Range

24-36 inches

Best Lakes

Northern Chain

Peak Season

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter (Ice Fishing)

Best Baits

Rope lures Spoons & Spinners (Large) Topwater Live Minnows (3-4″) Soft Plastic Swim baits

Fishing Guide

Best Fishing Times:

Dawn, Morning, Dusk, Night
Peak Fishing Seasons:

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter (Ice Fishing)
Recommended Lures:

Rope lures Spoons & Spinners (Large) Topwater Live Minnows (3-4″) Soft Plastic Swim baits
Abundance in Chain:

Rare
Fighting Quality:

Excellent Fighter

Habitat & Behavior

Shallow, vegetated backwaters, weed beds, and quiet bays. Areas with fallen timber, boat docks, and other structure. Prefers clear water where visibility aids their ambush hunting style.

Spawning Season & Behavior

Illinois is home to four gar species: longnose gar (most common), shortnose gar, spotted gar, and alligator gar Outdoor Illinois Journal: Gar: Fascinating Fossil Fish. The first three species are commonly found in Illinois lakes and rivers, while alligator gar are being reintroduced through a state program.

Group Dynamics:

Female longnose gar attract one to several males and lead them around an elliptical path for a period of time before spawning occurs Fishing in Illinois-Longnose Gar
Shortnose gar spawning groups typically contain one female and several males, with no parental care provided Fishing in Illinois-Shortnose Gar

Spawning Characteristics:

Females scatter eggs over aquatic plants and other objects in shallow water, with eggs hatching in about eight days shortnose gar – Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Gar eggs are toxic to humans and other animals, providing protection from predators

Conservation Status

Stable population, not threatened or endangered

Fishing Techniques

Rope Lure Method: Cast rope fly and allow gar to strike multiple times, teeth tangle in nylon fibers Live Bait: Use wire leaders with live minnows, allow 30+ seconds after strike before setting hook Bow Fishing: Popular method during spring spawning when gar are in shallow water Sight Fishing: Spot gar near surface and cast ahead of their path

Current Regulations

Daily Limit:

No Limit
Minimum Length:

No Limit
Special Rules:
- No special regulations
- Valid Illinois fishing license required
- Bow fishing permitted during designated season