Find Your Next Spot
Bowfin
Amia calvaLinnaeus, 1766
Identification
A cylindrical, olive-green body with a long dorsal fin running most of its length and a distinctive eyespot near the tail on males.
Where It's Found
Sluggish, vegetated backwaters, swamps, and oxbows across the eastern and southern U.S. — able to gulp air and survive low-oxygen water.
Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Fishing Notes
An aggressive predator with a hard, bony mouth — heavy tackle and strong hooksets are needed; often caught incidentally while bass fishing heavy cover.
Gear for targeting Bowfin
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Scientific Classification▾
Family
Amiidae
Genus
Amia
Order
Amiiformes
Class
Actinopterygii
Phylum
Chordata
Kingdom
Animalia
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Angler & boater picksSougayilang Telescopic Rod & Reel Combo →TRUSCEND Sunfish Swimbait →TRUSCEND Swimbait →
Photography sourced from Wikimedia Commons contributors.
