Fish Species

Ohio bowfin inhabit slow-moving rivers and lakes as native predators, and anglers can identify their preferred habitats.

The bowfin is an ancient Ohio fish with a long dorsal fin, a bony gular plate, and a vascularized air-breathing bladder.

Ohio longnose and spotted gar offer mild, firm white meat once anglers tackle the tough, bony hide and cleaning process.

Longnose gar are ancient Ohio fish featuring long snouts, sharp teeth, and bony scales, and they often exceed three feet in length.

Freshwater drum caught in Ohio waters offer mild white meat when anglers keep fish weighing between one and five pounds.

Freshwater drum are abundant Ohio fish featuring a high-arched back, rough scales, and powerful throat teeth for crushing shells.

Asian carp populations in Ohio waters, including the Ohio River and Lake Erie, and the ecological risks facing native fish.

Sterile triploid grass carp are legal to keep in Ohio with a specific permit from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Round gobies in Ohio waterways impact native fish populations and change local fishing conditions after arriving via ballast water.

Invasive fish species in Lake Erie threaten native populations and ecosystems through shipping, canals, and aquarium releases.