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Bigmouth Buffalo

Bigmouth Buffalo

Bigmouth Buffalo are North America's largest members of the sucker family and among the longest-lived freshwater fish, capable of reaching over 100 years old.

In Arizona, they are non-native, originally introduced in 1918 through intentional stocking for sport fishing and are now established in multiple watersheds including the Agua Fria, Lower Colorado, Lower Salt, Tonto, and Upper Salt river systems.

Scientific Name: Ictiobus cyprinellus

Physical Characteristics:

These remarkable fish can reach lengths exceeding 4 feet and weights over 80 pounds, with bronze to dark olive-brown coloration and unique black or orange markings that develop with age.

Unlike other suckers, Bigmouth Buffalo are filter-feeders with terminal (forward-facing) mouths and over 60 fine gill rakers that strain plankton from the water.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Arizona's populations inhabit reservoirs and slower-moving river sections, preferring shallow waters less than 16 feet deep with high turbidity tolerance. Established in multiple watersheds including the Agua Fria, Lower Colorado, Lower Salt, Tonto, and Upper Salt river systems.

Key Locations

Salt River system and Apache Lake, where established populations exist

Specific Spots

Target areas with slow-moving water, muddy bottoms, current edges, drop-offs, and areas with overhanging vegetation or submerged structure. Focus on reservoirs and backwater areas.

Bigmouth Buffalo FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

When is the best time to fish for Bigmouth Buffalo in Arizona?

Avoid fishing during spawning periods in spring when water temperatures reach 60-75°F to protect breeding populations. Fish near the bottom in deeper pools during cooler months, and move to shallow protected embayments during summer.

How do you catch Bigmouth Buffalo in Arizona?

The most effective method is bowfishing, as these large fish commonly swim near the surface and are easily spotted. For traditional angling, drift fishing and still fishing work best. When hooked, these fish put up tremendous fights due to their size and strength - reel them in slowly to avoid breaking the line.

What do Bigmouth Buffalo eat?

They primarily consume zooplankton including cladocerans and copepods, supplemented with chironomids, algae, and benthic invertebrates.

Where do Bigmouth Buffalo live in Arizona?

Arizona's populations inhabit reservoirs and slower-moving river sections, preferring shallow waters less than 16 feet deep with high turbidity tolerance. Established in multiple watersheds including the Agua Fria, Lower Colorado, Lower Salt, Tonto, and Upper Salt river systems.

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