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Northern Hogsucker

Northern Hogsucker

Northern Hogsuckers are members of the sucker family found throughout Mississippi's river systems, particularly in the Mississippi River Basin.

They're distinctive bottom-dwelling fish that are rarely targeted by anglers and are typically caught incidentally, making them a challenge for specimen anglers seeking species diversity.

Scientific Name: Hypentelium nigricans

Physical Characteristics:
  • They have box-shaped heads, large lips covered in small bumps, and a distinctive black line around their lips not found in any other species.
  • Their mottled brown bodies with dark saddle-shaped patches provide excellent camouflage against gravel and rocky bottoms.
  • In Mississippi waters, they typically range 8-10 inches and weigh under a pound, though they can reach up to 14.5 inches and 2 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout Mississippi's river systems, particularly in the Mississippi River Basin.

Key Locations

  • Throughout Mississippi's river systems, particularly in the Mississippi River Basin.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on riffle areas with rocky substrates in clear, fast-flowing streams and small rivers.
  • Look for them around rocky structure where they feed by turning over stones and scraping algae.
  • They prefer clear, fast-flowing streams and rivers with rocky riffles, runs, and pools, though they occasionally appear in reservoirs fed by moving water.

Northern Hogsucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Live bait, particularly red worms or nightcrawlers. Small soft plastics like Mini Trout Magnets can work with precise placement.

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

Target the species in spring and early summer when they're most active, avoiding May during their spawning period.

How do you catch Northern Hogsucker in Mississippi?

Cast upstream and either drift your bait naturally with the current or anchor it lightly on the bottom with minimal weight, positioning the bait directly in front of or under visible fish. For artificial lures, success requires precise placement.

What do Northern Hogsucker eat?

Northern Hogsuckers are benthic feeders that turn over stones and scrape materials off rocks, consuming insect larvae, crustaceans, mollusks, diatoms, and bits of vegetation.

Where do Northern Hogsucker live in Mississippi?

Found throughout Mississippi's river systems, particularly in the Mississippi River Basin.

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