Garfish plentiful in Lake Norman

By: Gus Gustafson | Mooresville Tribune
Published: May 14, 2009

Like a gator, the gar appears to be sluggish and lifeless when sunning, but when hungry, it is quick to ambush its prey. First, it immobilizes the prey with a slashing motion of its snout, and then shreds and eats it with needle-like teeth. Bass, crappie and perch are fair game for this predator that lives on area lakes and grows to lengths of over three feet.
During the spawning season (May through July), it is not unusual to see a very large female gar being followed by several smaller males. At times, they are so close to one another that they appear to be one very long fish. Known as "daisy chaining," this often results in reports from anglers of seeing fish over 10 feet in length — another reason for alligator/monster sightings on Lake Norman.
Garfish have the power in their long bodies to test most freshwater tackle. Sometimes, they hit artificial lures. Most, however, are caught with either live or dead baits, while fishing for other species. The most popular local baits are live shad and fresh cut bream.
A hooked gar will put up a gallant battle and is known for its exhilarating runs. Occasionally, it will leap from the water while attempting to throw the hook. Care should be taken when unhooking.
The white meat of a garfish is very popular in Louisiana and other Gulf Coast states, but is not considered good table fare in other regions. The roe is toxic and should not be eaten under any circumstances.
The largest long nose gar caught in North Carolina waters weighed 19 lbs., 10 oz.
Upcoming Events:
A two hour class offered by Lighthouse Marine Services on "How to Safely Navigate Lake Norman," will be conducted at Gander Mountain, Exit 36, at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, May 21. Capt. Scott Spivey and I will discuss how to safely navigate Lake Norman's main channel, creek arms, danger spots and back coves, during daylight and at night. Other topics will include understanding navigation and shoal markers, boat ramps, marinas, restaurants & other points of interest on Lake Norman. The registration fee for this class is $25. To register, call 704-587-0325 or e-mail uscgc17@bellsouth.org.
"How to Use Sonar/GPS to Catch Summer Bass, Stripers, and White Perch on Lake Norman" — Thursday, May 28. This free 90-minute power point presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m., Gander Mountain, Exit 36, Mooresville. Capt. Gus Gustafson will lead the informative session. Additional information is available by calling 704-658-0822.
Tips from Capt. Gus:
Garfish are usually found near boat docks and in the back of shallow coves during the warmer months of the year. They are easier to see with polarized sun glasses.
The Hot Spot of the Week:
Stripers are feeding on live baits in major creeks up lake. Bass, white perch and catfish are biting at both ends of the lake. Reeds Creek has been quite productive for bass and perch. The lake level is 1.4' below full pond and the water temperature is in the 70s.
Visit Capt. Gus Gustafson's Web site at www.fishingwithgus.com,
e-mail him at
Gus@lakenorman.com or call 704-617-6812.

Garfish plentiful in Lake Norman

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