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Bigmouth Buffalo

Bigmouth Buffalo

Bigmouth Buffalo are Louisiana's largest native sucker species, capable of reaching over 4 feet in length and 70+ pounds. They're among the longest-lived freshwater fish, with some individuals exceeding 100 years old.

Scientific Name: Ictiobus cyprinellus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Bigmouth buffalo are often confused with carp but lack the serrated dorsal spine and have a terminal, upward-facing mouth.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Louisiana, they inhabit the Mississippi River drainage system from the northern parishes down to near the Gulf of Mexico, including major rivers, oxbow lakes, backwaters, and reservoirs.

Key Locations

  • Prime Louisiana locations include tributaries of the Mississippi River, Red River system, and associated backwaters and oxbow lakes.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on shallow areas (under 16 feet deep), backwaters, oxbow lakes, flooded marshes, and vegetated embayments along the Mississippi River system.
  • Look for areas with 50-75% pool coverage and protected embayments.
  • They prefer muddy bottoms and can be found around overhanging trees, current edges, drop-offs, and riparian zones.
  • Focus on areas with minimal current flow.

Bigmouth Buffalo FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for Bigmouth Buffalo in Louisiana?

Small nymph patterns, weighted nymphs, small streamers with flashy marabou, or algae flies (green marabou patterns).

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

Late fall through early spring before their April-June spawning period. During spawning season (mid-May to June), avoid targeting them as they're vulnerable during reproduction.

How do you catch Bigmouth Buffalo in Louisiana?

Dr.ift fishing or still fishing for conventional tackle. Dead-drifted patterns in slack water areas for fly fishing. Bow fishing is popular as they often swim near the surface, especially at night. Since bigmouth buffalo are spooky in shallow water, approach quietly.

What do Bigmouth Buffalo eat?

Unlike their smallmouth and black buffalo relatives, bigmouth buffalo are unique filter-feeders that primarily consume zooplankton, particularly cladocerans and copepods, along with algae, chironomids, and small crustaceans.

Where do Bigmouth Buffalo live in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, they inhabit the Mississippi River drainage system from the northern parishes down to near the Gulf of Mexico, including major rivers, oxbow lakes, backwaters, and reservoirs.

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