Blue Sucker
The Blue Sucker is one of Minnesota's rarest fish species, listed as Special Concern since 1984.
These are extremely rare and difficult to target specifically, making them primarily incidental catches while fishing for other species in Minnesota's major rivers.
Blue Suckers are extremely sensitive to water pollution and serve as indicator species for river health.
Scientific Name: Cycleptus elongatus
- These distinctive fish have elongated, streamlined bodies with blue to bluish-black coloration that intensifies during spawning season when males develop small tubercles on their heads, scales, and fins.
- They average 20-24 inches and 4-6 pounds.
- Blue Suckers have small, slender heads tapering to fleshy snouts with inferior mouths perfectly adapted for bottom feeding.
- Their most distinctive feature is an exceptionally long dorsal fin with 28-33 rays - far more than other Minnesota sucker species.
Fishing in Minnesota
Mississippi River
Sauk River
Rum River
Lake Minnetonka
Mille Lacs Lake
Crow River
Snake River
Little Rock Lake
Julia Lake
Long Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- In Minnesota, Blue Suckers inhabit only the state's largest southern rivers: the Mississippi River downstream of St.
- Anthony Falls, Minnesota River downstream of Granite Falls, and St.
- Croix River downstream of Taylors Falls.
Key Locations
- Mississippi River from the Twin Cities downstream, the Minnesota River below Granite Falls, and the St.
- Croix River below Taylors Falls.
- Minnesota's state record is 14 lbs 3 oz from the Mississippi River in Wabasha County.
Specific Spots
- Focus on deep, fast-flowing main channel areas, particularly near wing dams on the Mississippi River and around woody snags in the St.
- Croix River.
- They prefer deep, swift-flowing channels with sand, gravel, or rubble bottoms and are often associated with wing dams on the Mississippi River and woody snags in the St.
- Croix River.
- Target depths from 0.7 to 62 feet, though most are caught in water 11.5 feet or less.
Blue Sucker FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Blue Sucker in Minnesota?
Effective baits include nightcrawlers, aquatic insect larvae, small crustaceans, and cut bait.
When is the best time to fish for Blue Sucker in Minnesota?
The best opportunities occur during late spring through early fall when water temperatures are optimal. The best fishing occurs from late June through October. Avoid fishing during spawning periods (March-June) when water temperatures reach 50-62°F to protect this rare species.
How do you catch Blue Sucker in Minnesota?
Bottom-fishing techniques work best since Blue Suckers are dedicated bottom feeders.
What do Blue Sucker eat?
These bottom feeders consume aquatic insect larvae, crustaceans, plant materials, and algae.
Where do Blue Sucker live in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, Blue Suckers inhabit only the state's largest southern rivers: the Mississippi River downstream of St. Anthony Falls, Minnesota River downstream of Granite Falls, and St. Croix River downstream of Taylors Falls.
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