LIFE LIST (cont.)

as well.

Walleye and sauger are found in many bodies of water across the state, but often require specific tactics. These fish are often found near the bottom of flowing rivers and can be tempted by a jig tipped with a minnow.

There are a host of other fishes that can be added to the fish list. While not as popular as sport fish, many “rough fish” have much more potential than anglers give them credit. Grinnel (bowfin) are found in backwaters across the state, put up an amazing fight and are eager to take most bass lures, especially spinnerbaits. Freshwater drum are easily caught in most rivers on worms or crawdads as they make their spawning run. The gars of Arkansas offer an interesting challenge. Spotted gar are the smaller species and are found in more quiet waters. Likely to take a crappie jig or minnow, these fish are easy to find and catch. The same can be said for the longnose gar and it can be found in a wider range of areas than the spotted gar.

The shortnose gar is typically found in the larger river systems of the state.

Often confused with a spotted gar, the shortnose lacks spots on top of the head.

The alligator gar has the title of the largest fish in Arkansas and is found mainly in large rivers. Big baits and big tackle are keys to taking alligator gar.

There are several types of suckers that inhabit the waters of Arkansas. These fish, as well as many other species, are best sought with a worm fished on the bottom. The redhorse species are most often caught, but the buffalo species will also occasionally be taken. Once again, fish identification is critical in adding species to the list.

Chain and grass pickerel can be taken from a few bodies of water in Arkansas and look very similar. The chain pickerel is larger and more abundant. The shovelnose sturgeon and paddlefish are found in many Arkansas rivers and can be incidental catches while targeting other species.

For specific ideas on the wheres and hows of fishing in Arkansas, please check agfc.com. Rules and regulations vary depending on waterbody, so check those.

Also check out the Virtual Nature Center and Arkansas Game and Fish Commission YouTube channel for videos on fishing in Arkansas.