Official State Fish Of 30 American States

The state flag or the state flower may come to mind when you think about state symbols. But have you ever considered the fish that represents your state? Each state’s aquatic emblem tells a story of its ecosystems and local culture. Let’s learn about the state fish of 30 American states and what makes them unique!

Largemouth Bass and Fighting Tarpon (Alabama)

Alabama has two state fish, each ruling its own aquatic realm. Firstly, the Largemouth Bass, Alabama’s freshwater choice since 1975, is a fierce predator beloved by sport fishermen. Meanwhile, the Fighting Tarpon, known as the “silver king,” dominates the saltwater scene.

King Salmon (Alaska)

Hatched in freshwater, King Salmon return thousands of miles to the very stream where they were born. Here, they lay their eggs, completing their life cycle before passing on. The King Salmon’s epic migration and sheer size make it a symbol of Alaska’s wild and untamed spirit.

Apache Trout (Arizona)

One of only two trout species in Arizona, alongside the Gila Trout, the Apache Trout thrives in the region’s coniferous forests and marshes. Though native to streams, the Apache Trout has also been introduced into several local lakes, highlighting Arizona’s commitment to preserving its wildlife.

Alligator Gar (Arkansas)

As one of North America’s biggest freshwater fish, Alligator Gar is often called a “living fossil.” This fish has retained ancient features from its ancestors, like a spiral valve intestine similar to that of sharks and the unique ability to breathe air and water.

Golden Trout and Garibaldi (California)

California’s state fish are as diverse as its beautiful surroundings. The Golden Trout thrives in freshwater, once native to the Kern River but now found in many waters. In contrast, the Garibaldi, a vibrant orange fish, makes its home in the Pacific, from the Central Coast to Baja.

Greenback Cutthroat Trout (Colorado)

Earlier found across eastern Colorado and southeastern Wyoming, the Greenback Cutthroat Trout now clings to a tiny fraction of its former range. Designated as threatened, it was chosen in 1994 as a reminder of Colorado’s rich aquatic past and its ongoing efforts to protect these vital species.

American Shad (Connecticut)

Connecticut honors the American shad as its state fish, a species with a lineage that diverged from its European relatives long ago. Often called “the fish that fed the nation’s founders,” the American Shad played a key role in early American history by providing sustenance to the settlers.

Weakfish (Delaware)

Weakfish is known by many names: yellow-fin trout, gray trout, and tide runner, among others. Its official name reflects its weak mouth muscles, a feature that causes hooks to tear free. This fish is as elusive as it is varied, comprising the challenges and rewards of fishing in Delaware’s waters.

Florida Largemouth Bass and Atlantic Sailfish (Florida)

The Florida largemouth bass is the heavyweight champ of freshwater fishing—tough, thrilling, and sometimes causing a bit of drama by invading new waters. Meanwhile, the Atlantic Sailfish is the sleek, speedy superstar of the saltwater scene. These two fish prove that in Florida, even aquatic life is full of action.

Largemouth Bass, Southern Appalachian Brook Trout, and Red Drum (Georgia)

The Largemouth bass, despite its name, is actually an elongated sunfish with a talent for sneaking through lush freshwater. In cooler streams, the Southern Appalachian brook trout makes a splash with its white-lined fin. Furthermore, in the salty waters, the Red drum channels its inner game fish.

Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa (Hawaii)

Also known as the reef triggerfish, Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa is a colorful fish found in the Indo-Pacific reefs. It was first named Hawaii’s state fish in 1985. Though its status briefly expired in 1990, a 2006 law reinstated it, ensuring this charming fish remains a beloved symbol of the Aloha State.

Cutthroat Trout (Idaho)

Idaho’s rivers are home to the cutthroat trout, a fish that helped early settlers in the state. This trout is not just a local icon but also an indicator of environmental health. Its sensitivity to changes in the ecosystem helps monitor the health of its habitat.

Bluegill (Illinois)

In Illinois’ waters, this fish shines with its vibrant blue and purple hues. Known as “bream” or “sunny,” this freshwater fish can grow approximately 16 inches in length and weigh up to 4.5 pounds. Standard in the state’s lakes and rivers, it’s a favorite among anglers and nature enthusiasts.

Channel Catfish (Kansas)

Channel Catfish is the most common catfish in North America and a favorite among anglers, with around 8 million fishing for them each year. Recognized for their tendency to gulp down food whole, these catfish have also become a popular choice for farming due to their tasty appeal.

Kentucky Spotted Bass (Kentucky)

With its distinctive rows of dark spots, the Kentucky spotted bass, or “spotty,” is a fisherman favorite. Detected in cool mountain streams and rocky reservoirs, this fish enjoys snacking on insects, crustaceans, and smaller fish. Though often mistaken for the largemouth bass, spotty has its appeal.

White Crappie (Louisiana)

In Louisiana, the White Crappie, known locally as sacalait, gets its name from the Choctaw word “sakli,” meaning “trout,” likely due to its white flesh. The early French inhabitants greatly depended on these silvery-green creatures for sustenance, which is one of the reasons they were considered the state fish of Louisiana.

Landlocked Atlantic Salmon (Maine)

Growing up to a meter long, the Landlocked Atlantic Salmon is one of the largest members of the Salmonidae family. These fish are anadromous, beginning life in freshwater streams before maturing at sea. As adults, they return upstream to spawn to continue the cycle.

Rockfish (Maryland)

Rockfish is basically the rock star of the fish world. Sporting a striped outfit, this fish typically struts around, weighing 20 to 40 pounds. But don’t let its size undermine its worth, as in 1896, one fish went full diva and tipped the scales at a whopping 124 pounds.

Cod (Massachusetts)

Being a beloved staple on dinner plates and commercial fishing boats, cod belongs to the Gadidae family. These fish can live up to 25 years and are top predators in the Baltic Sea, though juveniles need to stay alert. Sometimes, even adult Cod munch on them.

Brook Trout (Michigan)

In spite of its charming appearance, the brook trout has faced some real-life drama since the nineteenth century. Although this freshwater fish isn’t officially endangered, it is definitely swimming against the current as its populations decline. It faces threats like stream pollution, habitat destruction, and invasive species

Walleye (Minnesota)

Walleye is a prized catch in Minnesota. It is often called the yellow walleye to avoid confusion with its blue cousin, which is now extinct. Once thought to be a different species altogether, recent research shows that blue and yellow walleyes are just two looks of the same fish.

Largemouth Bass (Mississippi)

Feasting on smaller fish and sometimes even fellow bass, the largemouth bass is a formidable predator. Growing over 20 inches in length, this popular fish is a key catch in many states across the region, especially in Mississippi. It possesses an aggressive nature, featuring an impressive size.

Channel Catfish (Missouri)

In Missouri, the Channel Catfish is a local legend, known for its toothless grin and whole-food chomping. All across the United States, rivers, reservoirs, natural lakes, and ponds are home to this fish, also known as Ictalurus punctatus. It gets its name from its whiskers, resembling cats.

Blackspotted Cutthroat Trout (Montana)

When it comes to fish fame in Montana, the blackspotted cutthroat is a species of concern. It faces challenges in Montana and British Columbia and is even considered threatened in Alberta. Keeping this trout thriving is important for maintaining the health of its natural habitat.

Channel Catfish (Nebraska)

Channel Catfish have made quite an impact due to their popularity as a food fish. Their rising demand has fueled aquaculture growth in the US and beyond, with introductions in Europe, Asia, and South America. However, this widespread presence has led many countries to label them as an invasive species.

Lahontan Cutthroat Trout (Nevada)

Nevada’s state fish, the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, is the largest cutthroat trout subspecies. While it’s one of the federally threatened varieties, it has legendary status, thanks to a 41-pound record-setter caught in Pyramid Lake. Rumor has it that there might be even bigger trout hiding out there.

Brook Trout and Striped Bass (New Hampshire)

The first state fish, brook trout survives in freshwater, dining on a seasonal smorgasbord of insects, fry, and worms. Secondly, on the saltwater side, striped bass have been making waves since Colonial times. Early European settlers marveled at their sheer numbers, along with alewives.

Brook Trout and Striped Bass (New Jersey)

New York’s state fish lineup is a familiar tune for those in New Hampshire and New Jersey. For freshwater enthusiasts, the brook trout steals the show. On the other side, the striped bass takes the stage on the saltwater front.

Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout (New Mexico)

The Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout, New Mexico’s aquatic treasure, thrives in northern New Mexico and southern Colorado. These lively fish spawn between mid-May and June, with males maturing by age two and females by three. They usually live about five years, though some beat the odds and reach their teens.

Brook Trout and Striped Bass (New York)

New York’s state fish lineup is a familiar tune for those in New Hampshire and New Jersey. For freshwater enthusiasts, the brook trout steals the show. On the other side, the striped bass takes the stage on the saltwater front.

Channel Bass and Southern Appalachian Brook Trout (North Carolina)

North Carolina’s state fish collection includes the channel bass (red drum) and the Southern Appalachian brook trout. The channel bass is known for its dark red back and an eyespot near its tail. The other one, the brook trout, is a prized catch in freshwater streams.

Northern Pike (North Dakota)

Meet North Dakota’s Northern Pike, a heavyweight of the waterways. These predators can reach up to 59 inches and tip the scales at 63 pounds. The world record for the largest pike is a 55-pound catch from Germany in 1986, proving that North Dakota’s pike has some serious bragging rights.

White Bass (Oklahoma)

Typically around 12 to 15 inches long, white bass is not just easy to spot but also a lively catch in freshwater lakes. Whether you’re casting from the shore or out on a boat, landing a White Bass adds a bit of excitement to any fishing trip.

Chinook Salmon (Oregon)

The Chinook Salmon is the heavyweight champion of the Pacific salmon family. Named after the Chinookan people, this salmon isn’t just a local legend—its omega-3-rich flesh makes it a dietary treasure. While some Chinook face challenges, many populations are still surviving.

Brook Trout (Pennsylvania)

Imagine casting your line into Pennsylvania’s crystal-clear streams and hooking a brook trout. This local favorite thrives in the state’s pure, cold rivers and brooks. If you’re looking to reel in a brook trout, remember: the secret is in the clean, cool water where this fish loves to roam.

Striped Bass (Rhode Island)

Did you know that along with Rhode Island, striped bass is also the state fish for Maryland and South Carolina? Its name changes depending on where you are—north of New Jersey, it’s called striped bass, but head south, and you’ll hear it called rockfish.

Striped Bass (South Carolina)

Yes, you guessed it—striped bass again! Officially given the title in 1972, these fish can be found in every river system and many large reservoirs. In South Carolina, striped bass are river residents, which means they spend their entire lives within the rivers, which makes them a staple of waterways.

Walleye (South Dakota)

If you’re fishing in South Dakota’s clear lakes or the Missouri River system, chances are you’ll reel in a walleye. These fish are common in larger glacial lakes. They have sensitive eyes and dive deep during the day but venture into shallower waters once the sun sets.

Smallmouth Bass and Channel Catfish (Tennessee)

Tennessee’s official game fish, the smallmouth bass, has held its title since 2005, replacing its larger cousin and making Tennessee the only state to honor it. The state’s commercial fish, the channel catfish, is highly populous across the US and is known for being monogamous and opportunistic eaters that can disrupt non-native waters.

Guadalupe Bass and Red Drum (Texas)

Texas honors the Guadalupe bass as its official freshwater fish. Native to the state, it’s found in creeks and rivers, including the Guadalupe River, and is near threatened. For saltwater, the state celebrates the red drum, a game fish found from Massachusetts to Florida and throughout the Gulf of Mexico.

Bonneville Cutthroat Trout (Utah)

Utah’s state fish, the Bonneville Cutthroat Trout, has quite a history. This fish was a key meal for both Native Americans and the first settlers in the Utah wilderness. Although it nearly disappeared, it’s now making a comeback across the state, proving that even nature can stage a comeback.

Brook Trout and Walleye (Vermont)

Vermont proudly claims the brook trout as its cold-water fish. Being a native species, it is a type of char, and has seen its habitat shrink due to land use. On the warm-water side, Vermont also honors the walleye, a popular fish known for its light-sensitive eyes.

Brook Trout and Striped Bass (Virginia)

Ever heard of a fish with a legendary status? That’s the brook trout, famed for its love of nymphs and a diverse diet. Meanwhile, the striped bass is the saltwater celebrity of the state’s waters. Despite its popularity, the striped bass has been feeling the effects of overfishing.

Steelhead Trout (Washington)

Since 1969, the steelhead trout has held the title of Washington’s state fish and is a top pick among anglers. With five different trout species and four types of salmon swimming in Washington’s waters, the steelhead proves its worth in a sea of fishing options.

Brook Trout (West Virginia)

West Virginia, known for its premier fishing spots, chose the brook trout as its state fish due to its mountaineer spirit. This feisty fish was picked over other contenders like the smallmouth bass and musky. Though now popular in various states, the brook trout remains a gem of West Virginia.

Muskellunge (Wisconsin)

The Muskellunge, or “musky,” has been Wisconsin’s official state fish since 1955. Often mistaken for the northern pike, the musky is the largest fish of the pike family and a rare gem in the US, which makes it a highly sought-after trophy in Wisconsin’s waters.

Cutthroat Trout (Wyoming)

The cutthroat trout is a diverse species native to the western US. This fish is known for its ability to survive in various aquatic environments. Much like salmon, cutthroat trout have an incredible instinct to return to their birthplace to spawn, adding a touch of natural wonder to Wyoming’s waters.