How To Catch Giant Alligator Gar

[@FishingWithAhrenAndMary]

Pay attention Kids, this is a Master Class for catching these beauties. You won't find this kind of information anywhere or from anyone else. You may find some so called "Alligator Gar" experts but they do not have as much experience catching AND landing them from a muddy bank. Peyton, thank you for the hard work you have put into showing us these absolute dinosaurs that hide in our river systems.

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Many thanks 🙏

[@JMumford24]

😅😅

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I hope you find this video helpful in your pursuit of alligator gar. Just remember, these are the techniques and tactics I currently use but I am constantly looking to improve and innovate everything I do. So while I do believe these are the best methods currently available, I am always looking for what's "better." One such improvement I'm looking into is using large unhooking mats for gar, just like the ones used for Wells catfish. I'm also moving towards using BARBLESS circle hooks. Two details I wish I had included in the video are the need for good polarizing sunglasses when spotting for breaching gar and the need to carry a small file to consistently sharpen your hooks. Lastly, please see the links in the description concerning alligator gar conservation. I'm not going to entertain uneducated or bad faith arguments spreading disinformation about these fish in this comments section, just as I wouldn't entertain any other form of anti-scientific nonsense. This video is intended for catch and release only and I strongly condemn the practice of catch and kill for alligator gar.

[@AreaThirteenThirteen]

I think TPWD should outlaw bowfishing for gar.

[@letibr23]

Thanks for showing

[@ZombiemodzFPV]

I've watch a whole lot of gar fishing videos and this is by far the best I've seen! I've learned more in this hour than I have in the last 20 hours of videos I've watched. Thank you brother.

[@BayouChamps]

Thank you so much for coming on board and featuring me in this AWESOME video! Catch and release, always. 🏆

[@lArtemislll]

Wow. I know alligator gar are very complicated and different when it comes to methods and tackle, but if there was a video like this for every species it would be highly appreciated. I feel like fish like crappie, blue gill, and white bass are taken very lightly, but sometimes you wanna catch one. This was by far the most in depth tutorial I've ever seen on anything to do with fishing. Thank you!!

[@wildcat69usatexas]

Thank you for explaining it to people. Keeping these ancient species is very important to the environment. They eat alot of envasive species as well. Thanks for your great work sir. I'm proud to be a follower of one of the greatest environmental conservationist in Houston. 10 thumbs up 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thanks for the support!

[@AngelmanBlog]

Been fishing and watching fishing videos for over 45 years now. I have to say this is one of the most informational videos that I have ever seen, for any type of fish. Very clear and never rushing through every aspect of the technique. Keep up the outstanding work.

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I appreciate it

[@howardlee8885]

You are incredible. I love your passion and love towards this amazing fish. I don't live in U.S. and I won't ever fish these but watching your channel is joy.

[@giggigidy6998]

Dramatic pause..."that's insane" I couldn't agree more. In fact this whole video is insane, one of your best. I can feel your energy and I share your enthusiasm....what an incredible species of fish. I truly appreciate you for this awesome production. I'd like thank you for your conservation efforts and educating the masses about an amazing local resource as well. Thank you brother ✌️💪👊

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thanks!

[@giggigidy6998]

@@wildlifefishingshow I've watched this video twice now and I'm sure it won't be the last 😆honestly this is awesome work. The educator in you really came out in this one....

[@greysenhobbs2247]

@@giggigidy6998 y

[@wyldeman]

The best gar teacher I've heard teach in my 65 years on this earth. Thank You for teaching catch and release these dinosaurs...... Fish On

[@dugahole-fishing8318]

You're a pretty awesome teacher. Didn't even notice this was an hour long. Lots of good info here.

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thank you!

[@tuanhuynh5359]

Excellent .... Excellent video. Sturgeon fishing was a favorite pastime of mine in the past. However, since I relocated to Texas five years ago, I've discovered a new hobby: Gar fishing. This video is truly exceptional, and I appreciate the effort you put into explaining all the details. Thank you!

[@Victoria-b9r1x]

Payton, you are so open and honest about sharing your experiences and information with others. I find your courage and generosity unequaled. You are a true American Sportsman…. Orlando Ron

[@KolegosBeStreso]

I never seen better explained turtorial.Very very detailed.I think this turtorial fits for most big buddies fishing 👍

[@Dnbootin]

This is great advice and an incredibly well informed dude. I’m a very beginner fisherman, and I spent 10 hours recently trying to catch just one or two what I eventually found out were gar for the first time at a honey hole I found in AR. It took 3-4 trips to the fishing supply store and two separate days from ~7am-12pm, a chunk of change for the clueless tax, a dozen hook and bait setups, and a bucket of minnows, but I figured it out with advice from the internet and fishing store employees/patrons. Caught a 3 footer on a $30 Walmart pole and zero training 😭 the internet comes in so clutch sometimes. All that to say, I wish I had watched this video first, it would’ve made my life so much easier. I’m writing notes as I watch, because it’s stuff I had kind of learned intuitively but didn’t really get it, mixed with mostly stuff I had no clue about and sounds right in line with what I was doing when I finally landed and got a picture with my one! If you count just landing but not being skilled enough to handle or net the fish as a “catch”, I’ve caught like 2-4 mostly smaller ones, but I don’t count them lmao

[@dinoftw1]

The video is amazing, you explained everything and your narration is on the other level. I didn't even have a chance to think its boring. Keep up the good work 💪🏻

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thanks!

[@ericmontoya8539]

Thanks for sharing that video and your technique throughout the entire process. Very informative and you explained it very well. Your hook up ratio with those circle hooks is awesome man. Good job.

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thank you!

[@ArcticCoonass]

Truly the most well thought out, informative, educational "how to" video I've personally ever encountered! Excellent job my friend, Kudos!

[@HTOWNANGLERS]

Awesome video!! Lots of good info feels like I’m watching discovery channel! Thank you for teaching proper catch and release on big gar and sharks to protect and conserve these magnificent animals!!

[@mikefarnkopf9813]

Excellent job laying down the basics. I have watched you do exactly as you stated here, in your videos. I have never, but would love, to fish for theses beauties someday! Thank you.

[@Nathan-ul8xu]

Hi WILD LIFE ! I'm french and i'm realy fascinate by your video. Every one of your videos are excellent ! Thank you very much for this guide about the fishing of alligator gar, it really is a fascinating fish. sorry if my sentences or my words are wrong. I wish you an excellent continuation and magnificent fish !

[@texaspeat1606]

I love this!!!! So clear! Thanks for taking the time to put this informative video together! Love it love it love it!

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thanks!

[@CrazzyOntarian]

Dude... I'm up I'm Canada... I will never see or fish for one of these, BUT I wanna say that was an absolutely incredible video! Litterally the best video I have EVER seen regarding how to find and catch a fish species AND the best ways to handle them! And incase you were wondering why I'd watch, first these are amazing animals, second sole of your tricks will work for our catfish

[@HoustonDad]

Nice! I got to go out with Alex last weekend, he got us hooked on a nice gar! Can't wait to go out again with y'all!

[@WatchingTheStorm]

Incredibly informative and entertaining. Loved your drawings. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us. 🙂

[@peterderidder2655]

I watched all youre vids with gar !! somme of them 5 times, and this is the perfect guide for young guys who start fishing these amazing fish ( GAR ) pitty we dont have them in europe. Once I saw here on youtube a vid from catch , claen and coock. He caught a gar , and this fish was way to big to take with you for eating. For the future of the youth who are dreaming about catching a big gar somme day. Please release the big gar back in to the river, I know you always free them and release them... BTW old and big fish most of the times dont taste verry good;-) . So thank You verry much for posting this vid !!! and shares all the good tips with us !!

[@isaiahculpepper3686]

Thanks for this video! After running into you at the unlimited Fishing, it hit me that I didn’t ask too many questions pertaining to catching these guys. So again man thanks & keep it up making great informational videos!

[@hkl378]

If I have a wealth of selecting a fishing buddy, it is going to be you. I like your enthusiasm and constant pursue of monster fish regardless of difficulties you may have. I also never kill a fish no matter what. Although I will not be able to fish a gar, all of your knowledge are applicable for fishing for other big fish. I am so happy to learn from you. These gars seems to be even more attractive than Wells cats in Europe currentIy holding a PB of 2.3M, 80kg. You are simply one of the best fisherman I have seen. I have other one in France who is professional Wells catfish guide.

[@svens8674]

Thanks for the great video and thanks for the emphasis on conservation and proper catch and release principles!

[@enimei2856]

best species fishing guide I've ever seen, an I can't even fish for Gars here in Europe...cheers...

[@markcarey8374]

I just found your channel. I'm very happy I did.. Thank you for taking the time to show us your techniques. I've never caught a gar. Growing up, I just never thought it was possible. Now I know better. 👍

[@dannywayne311]

This channel never disappoints, great content as always

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thank you!

[@dannywayne311]

@@wildlifefishingshow for sure thanks for wrestling these monsters and preparing your audience to be better equipped as well!

[@dropshoteverything8149]

Thank you for dedicating your time to explain to us newbies, know that you’re appreciated by the community! Keep on fishing!

[@tmole4060]

Great viewing,your passion and knowledge is first class. 👍👍👍

[@jameslara5352]

Good video I just have one ? What size and brand circle hooks are you using thank you

[@thegriffinsden3383]

I feel like I owe you money! Thank you very much! Best video I have watched in a long time!

[@TheGoodbenji3]

Best video on aligator gar i never seen. Thanks this specie is such an amazing creature you help to protect it in your video 🙏

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thanks!

[@ibrahimfergo6426]

Thank you very much for this educational video. Ive just met an Alligator Gar at my area and i cant believe my eyes, they are humongous!

[@ropincolt16]

Amazing video, love that you give these badass fish the respect they deserve

[@LeviW133]

Nice video man love your videos keep up the good work and I am interested in catching a alligator gar but I don't have the right tackle for um

[@tooblasted]

dont find these beasts in Australia but loved watching this tutorial, epic stuff!!!!! not afraid to get ya hands dirty handling that filthy bait too :P

[@cheza7061]

As always, such an enjoyable & informative video!!!!! Well done Payton!!!! 🎣😎🐟

[@brassteeth3355]

An excellent source of information. We love you.

[@stevecole7174]

Super Helpful, There's a Gar in my local pond that I've lost so many times.

[@BitesandStrikesFishing]

Bad ass video! I wish I had this info when I started gar fishing. Love the effort you put into this video 110%, very well done. 👏👏👏

[@matthewchang9764]

Super motivated to catch some gar now and release them safely! Thank you man

[@GatewoodBrown]

This is a masterclass! I too am a Houstonian and can't wait to try this out. Where do you like to buy your line/leader/hooks? If you have links we'd love to support ya!

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I appreciate it. I buy most of my line at Fishing Tackle Unlimited. I mostly use 500lb kevlar coated braid as my leader, which I buy on Amazon. My favorite circle hooks are Team Catfish nautilus circle hooks and can be found at Walmart. I have a patreon page that is linked in the description if you're interested in supporting the channel. Thanks!

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@wildlifefishingshow Thanks a ton man! I'll be sure to check out the patreon as well.

[@juanvillarreal1467]

Awesome video bro very well explained I love catching alligator guard now and you helped out with questions I wasn't sure of then sure of thank you again

[@thatslowyukon1362]

Best video , this needs more likes thanks for all the details literally the best information

[@patotmaster7747]

I've hooked a few of these. Gotten a real good look when they make a huge ruckus, clear the water, and consequently unhook themselves. They are tough to land.

[@markmcquitty5172]

Just watched great for the knowledge of gar i just wish we had them look amazing fish to catch i love ure content keep them coming can't wait to see the next one thanks great channel man 👍👍🇮🇪

[@whileriding]

Hints of the Crocodile Hunter on this one ... Keep up the great work!

[@Valscorn01]

This was such a good guide. Best on KZbin, for gar, or even catfish period. Ive learned the more disgusting the bait the better off your going to be. Get those guts, juices and blood all over because it can ONLY help. Blood and guts, catch fish.

[@stby_outdoors]

Love how in depth but easy to understand this video is. Also, and sorry if I missed this but what size circle hook is best?

[@wildlifefishingshow]

For the Team Catfish nautilus hooks, size 8/0 or 10/0 if you can get them.

[@PlatinumRmx]

mannnn if only I didn't live in Indiana haha. Amazing guide bro, I would've suggested doing a teaser or something and having the guide on patreon. Shows that you're a better person than I am :p

[@qingweing4322]

Sir,may i know why didn't use penn spinfisher to become your set?

[@stevenlong9455]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience, always a pleasure to watch your adventures!

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I appreciate it!

[@gamecockmike175]

Hey take you a small diameter pvc pipe and cut about 3 feet of it. Take your rope and feed a u all the way through until you create a lasso on the opposite end of your pvc and fix one end of the rope with a knot or some other way and leave the other end where you can pull the rope creating a circle and that's way easier than trying to muscle the fish with just a rope. Just a way to make it a little easier on you. This same lasso can be used in a multiple amount of ways

[@djjonbsatx]

Appreciate the video buddy. I do a lot of fishing in Tivoli Texas and I've seen some pretty nice sized gar out there.

[@CountryWolf_TX]

Dude! What a magnificent video! Congratulations on your brilliance

[@frankbeck2180]

As always great video thanks for sharing and keep em comming. I look forward to the next one. 🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯on target

[@joshwagner8468]

Good morning. Awesome tips and tricks buddy for the gar. Never been able to hook any but would love to one day. Oh and good luck on your bigass gar catch. 🎣🔥👊

[@FrancisoDiaz-j2t]

What is the type of the white fishing line of your favorite rod you said if you mind saying?

[@frankbeck2180]

Verry informative awesome job thanks for sharing and keep em comming and stay safe n god bless

[@tcox8729]

They've been stocking alligator gar in Illinois for about a decade now with some success. Hopefully they can make a big comeback in the state to help deal with the invasive carp. Would love to be able to fish for them soon.

[@bonniesmith6886]

I have the Salis x 3000 reel, with a Bmn Silver Cat Elite rod. (7'6 MH) What lbs of Alligator Gar would I target with that kind of set up? 🙏

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Among the arsenal of rods and reels I own, I have that exact same combination. You should be able to consistently and reliably catch fish up to 7 feet with that. Larger if you play the fish perfectly.

[@ChrisBassFishingAdventures]

BMN silver cat vs the Denali bottom feeder? Any recommendations, I already have a Heavy action catfish pro rod paired with a salis x 3000 but I’d like to get another large set up going. I already have another salis x just looking for a very good quality rod that can handle the stress of hundred pound plus fish.

[@satellitefishing]

I live on the coast of florida and in some backwater canals I have seen MONSTER gar. Am I best off just soaking baits in the general area or should I wait to see one and sight cast in front of it?

[@bonniesmith6886]

I have a question on the metal leader, all the ones that I find with a circle hook are to light and not strong enough. And the ones without, usually have a giant swivel near where the hook would go. Do what should I use? 🙏

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Don't buy pre-made leaders. I recommend using 500lb kevlar braid as the leader, snell knot to the hook, uni knot to the swivel. I've moved away from wire unless I'm in a shark area

[@ditty4u]

Ourstanding content and and presentation! Thank you. I really want to try to target this species now.

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Let me know if you get one, good luck

[@Visorofkicks]

If I see my pole go down like crazy is that a good time to set the hook? I know you say to have the gar run with it. I say that because it's to the point where my rod will almost be pulled off the ledge of the bridge. I'll try to set the hook but I still miss it sometimes. Any additional tips on what I should do with that situation?

[@SuperTiger2110]

What size circle hook are you using? Is it a 10/0 or 12

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Team Catfish 8/0 widened out and file sharpened

[@SuperTiger2110]

@@wildlifefishingshow ok thanks I got a 10/0 and I widen the hook im excited to try this new style to hook monster gar

[@mauriciom8174]

Freaking awesome tutorial bro 👌 I'm from Dallas tx and my goal is to catch a gar 300lbs and I've caught smaller but your videos just upped my game nice vid knowledge is power

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I really appreciate it. Those giants are rare, but they're out there. Good luck!

[@traceevans7505]

Great info but doesn’t the salis reel have a bunch of plastic gears? I’ve heard it strips it’s gears quite often. I like the last king rover personally

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I haven't had that issue. My one concern with the Salis X is the drag isn't as strong as advertised, but that can be compensated for if you're comfortable thumbing the spool. Whatever works for you should be good 👍 These were just recommendations based on the gear I have used myself

[@Scale575]

That gar drawing was pretty good 👍

[@SirKankus]

Does this Salis x cast as good as a spinning reel or better I can’t decide what reels to get for this gar season

[@wildlifefishingshow]

It casts fine, but I would recommend the Shimano Tekota 600 or Daiwa BG 6500

[@Flahmas]

Loved the video so much and it truly broke down everything you need to begin alligator gar fishing. One question would be how does the weather affect your fishing? Do you prefer an overcast and does that and the temperatures ultimately affect the activity?

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Generally I find the most success on the mornings of hot days, even better on the day before a storm. All my best fish have come under those exact conditions.

[@eastonperfect7915]

I have one more question if you don’t mind. I am looking for a good budget spinning rod for alligator gar. I am leaning towards the Denali bottom feeder 7’6 MH. Would this be good or do you think the 7’10 heavy is better for a spinning rod

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I would go with the medium heavy, it's a little more versatile. The heavy action is a broom stick which is great for fish 7-8 feet, but overkill for anything else (I only use it when I know I'm in giant territory). FYI, they recently re-sized the reel seats on their spinning rods. The Penn Fierce used to be the best fit but it won't fit now, so Daiwa BGs are the better fit now. If you end up getting one, use the code WL2022 and you'll get 20% off (I'm sponsored by Denali now)

[@leemorgan6172]

Would you mind sharing where you get your bait? I also live in the Houston area, and am getting into this, but have no clue where to find these baits you're using. Thanks for the great video, keep them coming. God Bless!

[@mjcalohan]

Would you say you're gear selection would translate to blacktip fishing from the shore?

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Yes on the reels but I would prefer a proper surf rod.

[@jamesgarrett4531]

What is that rod that has the metal seats on it paired with the Penn 8000

[@raymundturner1140]

This was amazing and very informative and helpful. Thank You 🙏🏿

[@robertfisher4356]

Great video. Thanks for all the good information.

[@tac0_]

What size circle hooks did you use in the video

[@emreeeeeeeeeeeeeee]

this video deserves more likes

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Much appreciated 🙏

[@duckypuk6941]

I shared the link to all my friends, we are all in high school and we go shark fishing once a week. We always have trouble getting baits out cause we don't have a kayak. This drone would solve all our problems

[@philyduff]

Credit due there buddy great video for anyone wanting to get into chasing theses giants :)

[@wescordray948]

What size circle hook do you typically use?

[@Gstar5150]

I just use 2-3 split shots about a foot above a rope lure and that works for me you do miss a decent amount but it really makes your heart pump just feeling that headshake and knowing they got lassoed by your rope lure.

[@williams201029]

Widened the hook and the stance and hooking method genuine thank you I will use

[@RaisenCain]

Excellent information!! Thank you!

[@JavierPadron]

I'm gonna say madkatz are the most affordable and king of the Gar rods right now. Heavy & Med Heavy throw up to 20oz of bait which is 1 1/2lb boys & girls This video has the best info on gear to catch monster gar and the videos to back it up what he's talking about folks.

[@i8mydog439]

Is the big cat fever rod collapsible?Thank you for video it was very helpful!

[@wildlifefishingshow]

No but it's still a great rod

[@ChrisJohnson-nc1yi]

Awesome video. I've been very keen on fishing for various species of gar since I was a young boy. They're hard to catch, they put up a good fight. When I learned that alligator gar live over a hundred years to reach the big 7-8' lengths, I realized that it is irresponsible to kill these fish. They don't taste that good except in mushed up balls, which could be replaced by chicken or pork for far less time, cost, and effort. I say, let them swim.

[@jacobperez2481]

Such a helpful video subscribed to you after this video i wish you could make a video on how to tie your knots to your mono line

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I appreciate it. I'll try to create some shorts for that.

[@jacobperez2481]

@@wildlifefishingshow thanks very much would be very helpful

[@KillerBeeOutdoors]

great informative video man🤙👍🙌

[@wildlifefishingshow]

Thanks

[@GlenPatterson-hb1fo]

Great video.. I've watched a few of yours now I'm in Texas next year fortworth area visiting friends . Is there many area's around there where I could fish 🐟 from the bank .I'm English I have got the tackle I need . Ideally I'd like to be guided boat or Bank but It seems not many guide's take out one person. If they do the cost would be astronomical . Any information or help I'd appreciate it . Thanks in advance Glen

[@wildlifefishingshow]

The Trinity in that area is great. Just use Google maps to search for big eddies and wide pools.

[@raymundturner1140]

what brand of mono and braid do you like to use?

[@wildlifefishingshow]

I use Onyx braid by Piscifun and Sufix Superior mono

[@raymundturner1140]

@@wildlifefishingshow thank you sir 👍

[@topshawta388]

No joke u will be the nest big thing in this whole fish game I would say Steve Irwin status I’m telling u

[@loading876]

I love your channel man

[@stephanierobertson8930]

what hook size do you use? 7/0? 9/0? awesome vid