Gars (Lepisosteidae) and Bowfin (Amiidae), collectively known as holosteans, are among the most ancient fish lineages native to North American waters. Understudied and historically disliked relative to other North American fisheries, many holostean populations have declined due to habitat loss, overfishing, and eradication efforts (Scarnecchia 1992, Kluender et al. 2016). Furthermore, knowledge regarding the basic biology and life history of these species is limited (Binion et al. 2015, David et al. 2015, Smylie et al. 2015). As anglers’ perception of these ancient species begins to transform from “rough fish” to “sport fish,” the need for a better understanding of the ecology and conservation status of holostean populations is fundamental to their effective management. This symposium will focus on the ecology, conservation, and management of holostean fishes, providing the opportunity for scientists and managers to discuss past and current research on topics such as life history, genetics, evolution, sampling methodologies, population dynamics, hybridization, aquaculture, and human dimensions. These presentations and panel discussions will provide valuable information to further our understanding of these ecologically important species, as well as develop a research framework to direct future conservation and management objectives. Proceedings of this symposium will be organized for publication.