Missouri Department of Conservation

Fish ID and Measuring

Learn to identify and measure the fish and other aquatic life you catch so you can abide by the seasons, daily limits, length limits and other regulations. When in doubt a fish's identity or legal length, play it safe, and return the fish to the water unharmed immediately.

How to Measure a Fish

Total length is measured from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail, with the fish laid flat on the ruler, with the mouth closed and the tail lobes pressed together.

Measure a Paddlefish

Paddlefish are measured from the eye to the fork of the tail.

Measure a Shovelnose Sturgeon

Sturgeon are measured from the tip of the snout to the fork of the tail. Only shovelnose sturgeon are legal to keep.

Missouri Game Fish

This is a list of the more common game fish caught in Missouri. Click on the common name of a fish to view detailed information about it.

Bass Identification

Many public fishing areas have specific length limits and seasons for the different bass species, so it is important for you to be able to tell the difference between largemouth, smallmouth, spotted, striped and white bass. Below are illustrations and descriptions to help you do this.

Catfish Identification

Learn how to identify catfish found in Missouri's rivers, streams and ponds.

Goggle-eye Identification

Although there are three different species of goggle-eye, they are all very similar in appearance: a heavy-bodied sunfish with a large mouth, the upper jaw extending past the middle of the eye. They usually have a dark-olive-to-black hue, with just a hint of tan on their sides. When moved to full light, they quickly turn brassy gold, with black blotches.

Snapping Turtle Identification

Know the differences between Missouri's two snapping turtle species. Do not harvest protected alligator snapping turtles.

Sturgeon Identification

Of the three species of sturgeon found in Missouri, only the shovelnose is a legal game fish. The lake and pallid sturgeons are endangered species. Learn to tell the difference between the three.

Sunfish/Crappie Identification

This page will help in identification of crappie, bluegill and other sunfish.

Walleye Identification

The walleye’s unique characteristics (shape, eye, fins and teeth) makes it fairly easy to identify.