Rod and Reel Fishing

• 1). Use strong line for conventional fishing, minimum 14-pound test, and a strong rod that is medium action or higher and can handle the pressure from long hook sets. The gar's bony mouth makes it easy for the fish to cut line or throw hooks. An open-faced reel is also a must.
  
  
• 2). Use live bait, a four- to six-inch shiny minnow with either a treble hook or circular hook.
  
  
• 3). Wait for the longnose gar to strike. After it does, open the bail for at least one full minute when a gar takes the bait, and let the fish run.
  
  
• 4). Close the bail and set the hook a full minute after the gar takes the bait. Most hooks won't catch in their bony mouths, meaning the gar must swallow the bait most of the time for the angler to have a shot.
  
  
• 5). Fight them out and then net head-first in case the lure isn't fully swallowed. There's a good chance if it's not that the gar will still throw the hook during the netting.
  
  

Spearfishing for Gar

• 1). Check state and local laws on longnose gar. Many states consider these "junk fish," meaning there are virtually no rules on catching them beyond having a fishing license. Not every location is going to be the same, and you don't want to use a spear gun if that method of fishing isn't allowed in your area.
  
  
• 2). Pick out a spear gun which shows good strength and functions without any major issues. Gar have tough scales, and a good spear gun will need enough punch to get through.
  
  
• 3). Look for longnose gar near the surface. Longnose gar tend to sit just under the surface of the water, making them prime targets for spear anglers.
  
  
• 4). Take careful aim, keeping in mind to account for the slight difference caused by the water. The fish underwater won't be exactly where they appear to be to the naked eye.
  
  

Bow Fishing

• 1). Use an appropriate bow, since the type of bow used for bow fishing is not the same as a compound bow used for hunting. Arrows should have strong line attached to pull in a longnose gar once shot.
  
  
• 2). Look for gar near the surface, or as they briefly break the surface of the water. Waiting patiently for a good shot is one of the most difficult aspects of bow fishing for gar.
  
  
• 3). Consider having a guide take you to the best longnose gar spots in the area. Finding places where the gar rest close to the surface, or even surface out of the water altogether, is critical to success. Having a guide show you the best spots can increase your chances of a good bow fishing excursion.