Species guide
How to catch Mooneye
Hiodon tergisus
freshwatergame fishHiodontidae
The Mooneye is a freshwater fish known for its shiny, silver appearance and is popular among anglers. It inhabits medium to large rivers and lakes, often found in deep pools and backwaters. Mooneyes are active predators feeding on insects and small fish near the water surface.
Where they live
Found in deep pools and backwaters of medium to large rivers, lakes, and reservoirs across North America. Prefers freshwater environments with abundant aquatic insect life.
Typical size
Up to about 47 cm
What they eat
- small fishes
- surface insects
- aquatic insect larvae
- midges
- mayflies
- caddisflies
- water boatmen
- small crustacea
Best baits
- insect larvae
- small minnows
- artificial flies
- worm
Best lures
- small spinners
- surface poppers
- minnow-imitating lures
- fly fishing lures
How to fish for them
- fly fishing
- casting surface lures
- light spinning tackle
- bait fishing with insect larvae or small minnows
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