Species profile
Mooneye
Hiodon tergisus
Identify Mooneye (Hiodon tergisus) from a photo — free, unlimited, no sign-up — with the CatchRules iPhone app. Plus current fishing rules across 5 jurisdictions.
At a glance
Mooneye (Hiodon tergisus) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species regulated in 5 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
The strictest bag limit is 8 (Saskatchewan); the most generous is 10 (Alberta).
Confirmed by 313 research-grade iNaturalist observations, with Quebec, Minnesota, and Wisconsin the top jurisdictions by observation count.
Notable details
- Named for its large golden eyes, which have a reflective layer that gleams in light.
- Typically reaches 12–16 inches and weighs 1–2 pounds.
- Found in clear, swift rivers and lakes across central and eastern North America.
- Closely related to the goldeye (Hiodon alosoides), which occupies more western rivers.
- Jumps acrobatically when hooked, earning comparisons to a miniature tarpon.
Where Mooneye are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for Mooneye
Background
Hiodon tergisus, the mooneye, is a freshwater fish that is widespread across eastern North America.
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Mooneye article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other bony fish on CatchRules
Frequently asked questions
What is Mooneye?
Mooneye (Hiodon tergisus) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species regulated in 5 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
What is the scientific name for Mooneye?
Mooneye is Hiodon tergisus.
Is Mooneye regulated for fishing?
Yes — Mooneye has fishing regulations in 5 U.S. states and/or Canadian provinces tracked by CatchRules. See the "Jurisdictions with rules" section above for the binding-source links.
How can I identify Mooneye?
Take a photo with the free CatchRules iPhone app — on-device identification recognizes Mooneye along with ~1,500 other species. No sign-up, unlimited use.
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.