Alligator gar in Florida

Meet the species

Alligator gar

Scientific name

Atractosteus spatula

Overview

Alligator gar primarily live in freshwater. They prefer large, slow-moving rivers, lakes, swamps, and bays. This species of gar is the most tolerant to salt water, allowing them to spend time in marine habitats. In Florida, they are restricted to six rivers in the western panhandle and the bays these rivers are connected to.

At a glance

Regions
Panhandle, statewide freshwater
Water
Freshwater

Florida fishing record

Weight
123 lb
Location
Choctawhatchee river, walton county
Date
Jul 8, 1995
Angler
Zachary phillips
Type
Florida state record

Open record source

Record catch notes

123.0 lb; by zachary phillips; on 7/8/1995; at choctawhatchee river, walton county

When to fish

Good months

January–december

Season notes

Months mentioned in profile narrative (not a fishing calendar): may intentional year round: Florida freshwater sport fish generally available year-round; peak months only when FWC When-to-Fish states them.

More season details

Where to fish

Florida regions

Panhandle & statewide freshwater

Water

Freshwater

Habitat

Alligator gar primarily live in freshwater. They prefer large, slow-moving rivers, lakes, swamps, and bays. This species of gar is the most tolerant to salt water, allowing them to spend time in marine habitats. In Florida, they are restricted to six rivers in the western panhandle and the bays these rivers are connected to.

More locations and access

Videos

Sources

Fishing videos from local voices

Information comes from the supplied source datasets. Check linked FWC regulations for current rules.