Longnose Gar – Lepisosteus osseus

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Duane Raver/USFWS

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Oklahoma Distribution – May be encountered nearly anywhere in the state, but is more common in eastern counties. 

Description - The long narrow snout of this gar is a least 13 times longer than the narrowest width.  Spots on body and fins similar to spotted gar, but less conspicuous and usually absent on head.  Fins are frequently orange-tinted.  Length usually less than 40 to 50 inches.  Large teeth in upper jaw. (click on picture above)

Habitat – Inhabits a wide variety of waters, from small streams to large reservoirs.

Natural Food Sources – Feeds mainly on fish, occasionally on insects and crustaceans when young.

Spawning – Spawning occurs in April and May in shallow water.  Adhesive eggs are scattered over vegetation or other structure.  The larvae attaches itself to the substrate shortly after hatching by means of special disk-like organ on the tip of the snout while the fish continues to develop.  The  attachment organ is subsequently lost as the fish develops the adult form.

Facts – The longnose gar is a sporty fighter when hooked and sought by bowfishermen, particularly in fast water areas above dams.