White Sucker
White Sucker are bottom-dwelling freshwater fish found in Louisiana's river systems and some larger lakes, though they exist at the southern edge of their natural range.
They're highly adaptable fish that can tolerate turbid and polluted waters, making them well-suited to Louisiana's varied aquatic environments.
Scientific Name: Catostomus commersonii
- Characterized by their cylindrical body, dark green to black back with lighter undersides, and distinctive downward-pointing fleshy mouth designed for bottom feeding.
- White Sucker typically reach 12-20 inches and weigh 2-6 pounds, with some specimens reaching up to 6.5 pounds.
Fishing in Louisiana
Red River
Lake Chicot
Mississippi River
Ouachita River
Kincaid Reservoir
Indian Creek Reservoir
Lake Buhlow
Cotile Lake
Lake Iatt
Calcasieu River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Found in Louisiana's river systems and some larger lakes, though they exist at the southern edge of their natural range.
Key Locations
- Eastern Louisiana Coastal region and Lower Mississippi-Baton Rouge areas.
- Louisiana's river systems like the Mississippi and its tributaries.
Specific Spots
- Target slow-moving streams, rivers, and the deeper areas of lakes, particularly around structure like fallen trees, bridge supports, undercut banks, and areas with soft substrates of sand or mud.
- Focus on pools, eddies, and areas with minimal current flow.
- During spring, concentrate efforts in areas where small tributaries enter larger water bodies.
White Sucker FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
When is the best time to fish for White Sucker in Louisiana?
Early spring after ice-out through early summer provides the best opportunities, as fish become more active and move into shallower waters. Can be caught year-round in Louisiana. In summer heat, target deeper holes and shaded areas where fish retreat from warm surface waters.
How do you catch White Sucker in Louisiana?
Present bait on or near the bottom. Fish slowly with minimal movement. Since they're bottom feeders, use enough weight to keep bait near the substrate.
What do White Sucker eat?
Diet consists primarily of small invertebrates, algae, aquatic insects including chironomid larvae and mayflies, mollusks, detritus, and occasionally fish e.g.gs.
Where do White Sucker live in Louisiana?
Found in Louisiana's river systems and some larger lakes, though they exist at the southern edge of their natural range.
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