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White Sucker

White Sucker

White Sucker are native to Kentucky and widely distributed throughout the state's waters, though they're most common in streams and rivers statewide according to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.

These bottom-dwelling fish are highly adaptable fish that tolerate turbid and polluted waters better than many species.

Scientific Name: Catostomus commersonii

Physical Characteristics:
  • These bottom-dwelling fish are easily identified by their distinctive sucker-like mouth with fleshy, papillose lips positioned on the underside of their heads, which they use to vacuum up organic matter and aufwuchs from stream bottoms.
  • Adult White Suckers typically reach 12-20 inches and can weigh 2-6 pounds, with their characteristic dark green, grey, copper, brown, or black backs, silver sides, and light undersides.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit various water types from small streams to large rivers and reservoirs, preferring areas with slow to moderate velocity around 40 cm/sec, typically in pools with depths of 61-90 cm.

Key Locations

  • Target small to medium streams with gravel and sandy bottoms, as well as pools in larger rivers and streams throughout Kentucky.

Specific Spots

  • Look for deeper pools with cover like logs, brush, and undercut banks, especially where there's slow to moderate current.
  • They seek cover around logs, brush, undercut banks, and debris.

White Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for White Sucker in Kentucky?

Small pieces of red worms or nightcrawlers on size 6-8 hooks with 1/8 to 1/4 ounce e.g.g sinkers or split shot rigs.

What flies work for White Sucker in Kentucky?

Effective fly patterns include small nymphs, scud patterns, worm imitations, and anything resembling their benthic food sources - fish these on or near the bottom. Traditional streamers like small wooly buggers (size 12-16), bucktail patterns, and thundercreek-style flies work well.

When is the best time to fish for White Sucker in Kentucky?

The best time to fish for White Suckers in Kentucky is early spring during their spawning runs in late March through April. They're also productive during fall and winter when they move into deeper pools. During spawning season, avoid targeting them as they're focused on reproduction rather than feeding.

How do you catch White Sucker in Kentucky?

For bait fishing, use small pieces of red worms or nightcrawlers on size 6-8 hooks with 1/8 to 1/4 ounce e.g.g sinkers or split shot rigs. Focus on current breaks, eddies, deep pools, and slack water behind logjams and downed trees.

What do White Sucker eat?

White Suckers are omnivorous bottom feeders with a diverse diet including small invertebrates (chironomid larvae, amphipods, gastropods), algae, plant matter, aquatic insects, and benthic organisms.

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