Oscar
Astronotus ocellatus
A large South American cichlid introduced to Hawai'i and now established in island reservoirs, the oscar is a hard-fighting, aggressive gamefish popular with freshwater anglers. It has a deep, oval, laterally compressed body colored charcoal to olive and heavily marbled with rusty-orange blotches, long-based dorsal and anal fins, and a distinctive eyespot (ocellus) at the base of the tail — a black spot ringed in bright orange-red. In the Wahiawā Public Fishing Area the oscar carries a daily bag limit of one.
Warm, weedy, low-flow reservoirs and irrigation impoundments on the main Hawaiian islands.
How to Catch Oscar
Whether you're new to targeting Oscar or refining your approach, success starts with matching your tactics to where the fish lives. Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) is typically found in reservoir water and lake water, so concentrate your effort where those conditions line up. Mature Oscar average around 10 inches, which helps you choose the right line, lure size, and tackle for the fight.
Where to Find Oscar in the USA & Canada
Oscar is recorded across a range of North American waters, including spots in Hawaii. Browse the linked water guides below to see the specific lakes, rivers, and coastal waters where anglers report catching Oscar, then plan a trip around the water closest to you.
Oscar Fishing Regulations & Limits
Fishing rules for Oscar 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 Oscar populations healthy for future seasons.
Related Water Guides for Oscar
Explore these FishFinder water guides for places where Oscar is recorded:
Oscar Regulations
Review current FishFinder regulation records before targeting Oscar:
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water is best for catching Oscar?
Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) is typically found in reservoir water and lake water. Focus your effort where those conditions line up to improve your chances.
How big does Oscar get?
Mature Oscar average around 10 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 Oscar in the USA and Canada?
Oscar is reported across North American waters, including spots in Hawaii. 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 Oscar?
A valid fishing license is required in most US states and Canadian provinces. Daily bag limits, minimum size limits, and open seasons for Oscar vary by region, so review the regulations on this page and with your local wildlife authority before heading out.