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Blue Sucker

Blue Sucker

The Blue Sucker (Cycleptus elongatus) is a long-lived freshwater species in the sucker family that's of significant conservation concern in Mississippi waters.

Two distinct species exist in Mississippi: the original Blue Sucker and the Southeastern Blue Sucker (Cycleptus meridionalis), which was recognized as a separate species in 1999.

Scientific Name: Cycleptus elongatus

Also known as Southeastern Blue Sucker (Cycleptus meridionalis)

Physical Characteristics:
  • These elongated, streamlined fish have variable coloration from light steel-gray to jet black in spring, with males developing striking blue-black coloration during breeding season.
  • They average 2-3 kg (4-6 lbs) and 76 cm (30 inches), though specimens over 40 years old have been documented.
  • Blue Suckers possess small, slender heads tapering to fleshy snouts with inferior mouths perfect for bottom feeding.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • In Mississippi, they prefer the main channels of large rivers, particularly areas with moderate to swift currents and depths typically ranging from 15-45 feet.
  • They require clean, well-oxygenated water with swift currents over gravel, sand, or rubble bottoms.

Key Locations

  • The Southeastern Blue Sucker is found specifically in the Pearl, Pascagoula, and Mobile river systems of Mississippi and Louisiana.
  • In Mississippi's large river systems like the lower Mississippi River itself, focus on main channel borders, tailwater zones below dams, and side-channel borders.
  • Most successful captures occur near river confluences, especially around the Missouri and Mississippi river junction.

Specific Spots

  • Most successful captures (87%) occur in outside river bends, with an additional 12% in side channels.
  • Target depths of 30-45 feet during colder months, moving to 15-25 feet during warm spells.
  • Blue Suckers often associate with wing dams on the Mississippi River and woody snags.
  • Target areas with gravel or rubble bottoms rather than silted areas.

Blue Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

When is the best time to fish for Blue Sucker in Mississippi?

Hoop nets show the highest success rates, particularly from July through September when 39% of reported catches occur. Winter months (December-February) when water temperatures drop to 36-38°F can be prime for larger specimens. Avoid fishing during spawning periods from February through June.

How do you catch Blue Sucker in Mississippi?

Bottom fishing with heavy Carolina rigs. Most successful captures occur using hoop nets and gill nets by commercial fishers.

What do Blue Sucker eat?

They're bottom feeders consuming aquatic insect larvae, crustaceans, plant material, and algae.

Where do Blue Sucker live in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, they prefer the main channels of large rivers, particularly areas with moderate to swift currents and depths typically ranging from 15-45 feet. They require clean, well-oxygenated water with swift currents over gravel, sand, or rubble bottoms.

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