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Northern Hogsucker

Northern Hogsucker

The Northern Hogsucker is a native freshwater sucker species found throughout Kentucky's streams and rivers. According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, it's one of 245 native fish species in the state.

Scientific Name: Hypentelium nigricans

Physical Characteristics:
  • Bottom-dwelling fish with distinctive square heads with large lips covered in small papillae (wart-like bumps) and a characteristic black line around their lips.
  • They typically reach 8-10 inches in length, though can grow up to 2 feet and weigh up to 2 pounds, with larger specimens usually being female.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout Kentucky.
  • Prefer clear, fast-flowing water in small to medium-sized streams with gravel and sandy bottoms, though they can also be found in cold water streams, large rivers, and occasionally reservoirs.

Key Locations

  • Throughout Kentucky's streams and rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on riffle sections of streams.
  • Gravel and current areas.
  • Rocky bottoms.
  • Bottom-dwelling areas where they feed.

Northern Hogsucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small red worms or nightcrawlers are most effective. Small soft plastics like Mini Trout Magnet can work when perfectly placed, though success rates are much lower than with live bait. Corn and other typical baits are largely ineffective.

What flies work for Northern Hogsucker in Kentucky?

Fly patterns such as hare's ear nymphs can work when perfectly placed, though success rates are much lower than with live bait.

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

The best fishing occurs in late winter through early spring and fall, avoiding the May spawning period when water temperatures reach 59°F.

How do you catch Northern Hogsucker in Kentucky?

Sight fishing with natural drift presentation. Cast upstream and drift your bait naturally with the current. Precision placement of small baits directly in the fish's feeding zone is required for any chance of success.

What do Northern Hogsucker eat?

Diet consists primarily of insect larvae, crustaceans, mollusks, diatoms, and bits of vegetation. They're selective feeders that primarily consume bottom-dwelling organisms.

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