The bowfin, or Amia calva has an elongated body and is a mottled olive-green and brown color. It is covered with heavy scales, its head has bony plates, and the mouth is full of sharp teeth. This freaky looking fish is very slimy and can even swim backward. Yes, they are safe to eat, but why would you want to?

Is bowfin fish good eating?

Bowfin are usually not considered a good food fish compared to more popular freshwater gamefish species, such as pike or trout. They are generally regarded as trash fish by sportsmen in the United States, because they eat more desirable species, including crayfish.

Do bowfin bite humans?

Many bowfins simply bite through the line with their needle-sharp teeth. Landed bowfin may at first appear docile, but suddenly spring to life, tangling nets and line with violent thrashings of their body. ... Perhaps the most important value of bowfins to humans is strictly academic.