Black Buffalo
Black Buffalo are native to Kansas but have experienced declining populations since channelization of major rivers.
These robust fish are the largest of the buffalo species and are challenging to catch, seldom targeted by recreational anglers, making them an uncommon catch.
Scientific Name: Ictiobus niger
Also known as buoy tender, current buffalo
- Often weighing over 80 pounds and reaching lengths up to 48 inches.
- They have a distinctive gunmetal blue coloration, darker than bigmouth buffalo, with a slightly compressed, almost round body and large rounded head with a blunt snout.
- Their small mouth relative to body size.
Fishing in Kansas
Neosho River
Melvern Lake
Verdigris River
Council Grove Lake
Marais des Cygnes River
Lyon County State Lake
John Redmond Reservoir
Pomona Lake
Chase County State Lake
Toronto Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- In Kansas, they're found in impoundments and reservoirs, preferring large rivers with strong currents and deep waters over sand, gravel, and rock substrates.
- In Kansas streams, they inhabit the Arkansas River Basin primarily.
Key Locations
- Arkansas River Basin, Arkansas River system and large impoundments throughout Kansas.
Specific Spots
- Target areas with sandy or gravel bottoms at depths of 8-12 feet or more.
- Fish areas near dam faces, river confluences, and deep pools with good flow.
Black Buffalo FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Black Buffalo in Kansas?
Use baits that mimic their natural food sources: small mollusks, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. Pack baits, meat, bread, sweet corn, and curly tail grubs have proven effective based on angling data.
When is the best time to fish for Black Buffalo in Kansas?
Best fishing occurs outside the spawning period (avoid late April through June).
How do you catch Black Buffalo in Kansas?
Present baits on or near the substrate since their feeding behavior focuses on the bottom. Fish areas near dam faces, river confluences, and deep pools with good flow.
What do Black Buffalo eat?
They're generalist bottom feeders, consuming small mollusks, aquatic insects and larvae, small crustaceans, algae, diatoms, and notably the invasive Asiatic clam.
Where do Black Buffalo live in Kansas?
In Kansas, they're found in impoundments and reservoirs, preferring large rivers with strong currents and deep waters over sand, gravel, and rock substrates. In Kansas streams, they inhabit the Arkansas River Basin primarily.
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