Use a long, sturdy rod with strong line and a wire leader
Use live bait such as minnows, shiners, or small fish
Fish in shallow, warm, weedy, or slow-moving water
Look for gar near the surface, especially at dawn or dusk
Cast beyond the fish and retrieve slowly past it
Use a float or suspend bait near the surface
Set the hook firmly after the gar fully takes the bait
Use a large landing net or lip gripper with caution
Wear gloves to handle the fish safely
Check local fishing regulations before fishing for gar