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Spotted Sucker

Spotted Sucker

The Spotted Sucker is one of the least common sucker species found in Michigan, with many anglers never seeing one.

Scientific Name: Minytrema melanops

Physical Characteristics:
  • These medium-sized fish reach a maximum length of around 18-19 inches and weigh up to 2.6 pounds, though they typically average 12-18 inches.
  • They're easily identified by distinctive black spots at the base of each scale that form rows down their silver to golden-brown sides, giving them a spotted appearance.
  • The species has a tube-shaped body with the characteristic sucker mouth adapted for bottom feeding.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer clean, clear waters with firm substrates and are highly sensitive to pollution, excessive sedimentation, and high turbidity - making their presence an indicator of good water quality.
  • The species inhabits deep pools of small to medium rivers over clay, sand, or gravel, and can also be found in lakes, reservoirs, and slow-moving current areas often around vegetation.

Key Locations

  • In Michigan, Spotted Suckers are found in both the Great Lakes system and inland waters, including the Clinton River watershed, Plaster Creek, and connecting tributaries.
  • Focus on the Clinton River system, including tributaries and connecting waters where the species has been documented.
  • In Michigan's Great Lakes tributaries, target areas where these fish stage during migration periods outside of spawning season.

Specific Spots

  • Target habitat includes slow-moving waters around vegetation, deep pools in rivers, and areas with clay, sand, or gravel substrates.
  • Look for areas with moderate current and structure that provides cover.
  • Since they're sensitive to water quality, concentrate efforts in cleaner waterways.

Spotted Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Spotted Sucker in Michigan?

Nightcrawlers are highly effective and can be broken into halves or thirds to extend use. Other productive baits include red worms, leeches, small crayfish, and minnows. 1/8-ounce jig heads with slip floats or bobbers.

What flies work for Spotted Sucker in Michigan?

Fly fishing can be productive using wet fly patterns such as nymph and scud patterns, along with flies that imitate worms and fish e.g.gs. Natural chartreuse sucker spawn e.g.g patterns have proven particularly effective.

When is the best time to fish for Spotted Sucker in Michigan?

Spring is the optimal time for targeting Spotted Suckers. Target clean, cool waters during early spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate. Avoid March-May spawning times.

How do you catch Spotted Sucker in Michigan?

For bait fishing, nightcrawlers can be broken into halves or thirds to extend use. Jig heads work well - try 1/8-ounce jig heads with slip floats or bobbers positioned a few feet above to keep bait moving and attractive in shallow waters.

What do Spotted Sucker eat?

Their diet consists primarily of organic fragments, small aquatic insects, crustaceans, copepods, cladocerans, chironomids, and other benthic invertebrates.

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