Fish Profile - Bowfin

These are large fish, averaging 18 to 24 inches in length and growing up to 11 pounds in weight.

Bowfin are so distinct in appearance they are unlikely to be confused with other fish species. They have a massive round head with heavy plates on the cheeks, a large mouth loaded with pointed teeth, a rounded tail and a long, wavy dorsal fin. There is an oval black spot at the base of the tail, and their fins are often bright green with some orange highlights on males.

Similar to bullheads and longnose gar, bowfin can live in waters with low oxygen levels. Their modified swim bladder is lung-like, enabling bowfin to gulp air at the water's surface.

Spawning occurs in May and June. Adult males build nests by biting and tearing out leaves and stems of rooted vegetation. After the eggs hatch, the young attach to nearby vegetation with the aid of an adhesive tip on the snout. Male bowfin stay and guard the eggs and young for up to several weeks.

Although bowfin put up a good fight when hooked, only a few anglers fish for them. Juveniles make interesting and colorful specimens in a fish tank.

Species Facts

Science Name: Amia calva Other Names: mudfish, mud pike, dogfish, grindle, blackfish, cottonfish, swamp bass, cypress trout World Record: 21 lbs. 8 ounces SC Environment: lakes Techniques: light tackle Range: Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana

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