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Northern Hogsucker

Northern Hogsucker

The Northern Hogsucker is a bottom-dwelling member of the sucker family found in clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers throughout Louisiana. These fish are notorious for being difficult to catch despite being relatively common in Louisiana waters.

Scientific Name: Hypentelium nigricans

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinctive fish with a box-shaped head with large, papillae-covered lips (small wart-like bumps that help them find food), mottled brown coloration that provides excellent camouflage.
  • Can reach up to 2 feet in length, though most caught are 8-10 inches.
  • They're strong fighters for their size due to their block-headed shape and experience in current.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers throughout Louisiana.
  • They inhabit tributaries with documented populations.
  • Population surveys show them as common in Louisiana tributaries with CPUE ranging from 0.4 to 5.0 depending on location.

Key Locations

  • Pearl River Basin, Tangipahoa River watershed, and other tributaries.
  • Documented populations in the main stems and wadeable headwaters.

Specific Spots

  • Rocky riffles, runs, and pools in clear creeks and small rivers.
  • Areas with gravel substrate and stone and rubble bottoms where they actively forage.
  • Occasionally found in reservoirs fed by moving water.
  • Look for the feeding disturbances they create.

Northern Hogsucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Red worms or nightcrawlers on small hooks. Small soft plastics like Mini Trout Magnets work well when perfectly placed.

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

Spring through fall, with peak fishing from April through October. Avoid fishing during spawning period in May when water temperatures reach about 59°F (15°C).

How do you catch Northern Hogsucker in Louisiana?

Live bait is the most effective approach - cast upstream and allow the bait to drift naturally with the current or anchor it lightly on the bottom with minimal weight. The key is getting your bait directly in front of or even under the fish. For artificial lures, perfect placement is required.

What do Northern Hogsucker eat?

Benthic feeders that use their specialized mouths to scrape material off rocks, turn over small stones, and vacuum up insect larvae, crustaceans, mollusks, diatoms, and bits of vegetation.

Where do Northern Hogsucker live in Louisiana?

Found in clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers throughout Louisiana. They inhabit tributaries with documented populations. Population surveys show them as common in Louisiana tributaries with CPUE ranging from 0.4 to 5.0 depending on location.

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