Species guide
How to catch Bowfin
Amia calva
freshwatergame fishAmiidae
The Bowfin is a prehistoric freshwater fish known for its elongated body and aggressive predatory behavior. It primarily hunts fish and insects, thriving in North American waters. This species is appreciated by anglers for its strong fight and unique appearance.
Where they live
Bowfin inhabit freshwater bodies across North America, favoring vegetated lakes, swamps, and slow-moving rivers. They are often found near cover where they ambush prey.
Typical size
Up to about 109 cm
What they eat
- fish
- insects
- small amphibians
Best baits
- live minnows
- worms
- insect larvae
Best lures
- soft plastic swimbaits
- topwater frogs
- spinnerbaits
How to fish for them
- casting near vegetation
- topwater lure retrieval
- live bait fishing
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