Mooneye
Hiodon tergisus
A silvery, laterally compressed fish with a large, bright eye and a deeply forked tail, the mooneye is the goldeye's close cousin and shares its combined daily limit. Native to the Saskatchewan and Qu'Appelle river systems, it feeds on insects and small fish near the surface and gives light-tackle anglers a spirited fight.
Clear to slightly turbid prairie rivers and connected lakes; a surface-feeding native fish counted together with goldeye in the daily limit.
How to Catch Mooneye
Whether you're new to targeting Mooneye or refining your approach, success starts with matching your tactics to where the fish lives. Mooneye (Hiodon tergisus) is typically found in river water and lake water, so concentrate your effort where those conditions line up. Mature Mooneye average around 12 inches, which helps you choose the right line, lure size, and tackle for the fight.
Where to Find Mooneye in the USA & Canada
Mooneye is recorded across a range of North American waters, including spots in Saskatchewan. Browse the linked water guides below to see the specific lakes, rivers, and coastal waters where anglers report catching Mooneye, then plan a trip around the water closest to you.
Mooneye Fishing Regulations & Limits
Fishing rules for Mooneye vary by state and province. Before you head out, check the daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons that apply in your area. When FishFinder has matching records, the regulations link below takes you to the rules hub. Following local limits keeps Mooneye populations healthy for future seasons.
Related Water Guides for Mooneye
Explore these FishFinder water guides for places where Mooneye is recorded:
Mooneye Regulations
Review current FishFinder regulation records before targeting Mooneye:
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water is best for catching Mooneye?
Mooneye (Hiodon tergisus) is typically found in river water and lake water. Focus your effort where those conditions line up to improve your chances.
How big does Mooneye get?
Mature Mooneye average around 12 inches, though individual fish can run larger. Matching your line, lure size, and tackle to that range makes for a better fight and landing rate.
Where can I catch Mooneye in the USA and Canada?
Mooneye is reported across North American waters, including spots in Saskatchewan. Check the locations listed on this page to find the lakes, rivers, and coastal waters closest to you.
Do I need a fishing license to catch Mooneye?
A valid fishing license is required in most US states and Canadian provinces. Daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons for Mooneye vary by region, so review the regulations on this page and with your local wildlife authority before heading out.