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Northern Hogsucker

Northern Hogsucker

The Northern Hogsucker in Alabama is a bottom-dwelling fish that feeds by flipping stones and scraping materials off rocks to uncover food.

This feeding behavior attracts other fish species like minnows and smallmouth bass that position themselves downstream to feed on dislodged organisms.

Scientific Name: Hypentelium nigricans

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by 10-12 dorsal rays, a distinctly concave area between the eyes, and a gray to brown body with yellowish fins.
  • Adults range from 10-17 inches in Alabama, though they can reach up to 24 inches in northern states.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Alabama, this species is limited to the Tennessee River drainage, with a small population also present in the upper Conasauga River.

Key Locations

  • In Alabama, this species is limited to the Tennessee River drainage, with a small population also present in the upper Conasauga River.
  • The largest specimens have been collected in downstream reaches of Tennessee River tributaries including Second Creek, Big Nance Creek, Limestone Creek, and the Elk, Flint, and Paint Rock rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on riffle areas with gravel, rock, and cobble bottoms.
  • Northern hogsuckers prefer clear, high-gradient streams with gravel, rock, and cobble substrates and moderate to swift currents.
  • Target the downstream reaches of tributaries.

Northern Hogsucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Northern Hogsucker in Alabama?

Live bait is the most effective approach - red worms or nightcrawlers on small hooks work well. Small soft plastics like Mini Trout Magnets can elicit strikes when perfectly placed.

What flies work for Northern Hogsucker in Alabama?

Flies like hare's ear nymphs, weighted streamers, particularly patterns that mimic their natural food sources.

When is the best time to fish for Northern Hogsucker in Alabama?

Best fishing occurs outside of spawning season (avoid March-April when they're breeding).

How do you catch Northern Hogsucker in Alabama?

Cast upstream and get your bait right in front of or under the fish. You can drift bait naturally with the current or anchor it on the bottom with light weight for better control. Artificial lures can work but are more challenging and require perfect placement.

What do Northern Hogsucker eat?

They feed by flipping stones and scraping materials off rocks to uncover aquatic insect larvae, small snails, crustaceans, mollusks, diatoms, and bits of vegetation.

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