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Bigmouth Buffalo

Bigmouth Buffalo

The Bigmouth Buffalo is the largest member of the sucker family and one of the longest-lived freshwater fish in North America, capable of living over 100 years. In Nebraska, they inhabit the Missouri River system and various reservoirs along the I-80 corridor.

Nebraska's population is native to the Mississippi River drainage basin, with the species well-adapted to the state's shallow lakes, reservoirs, and slow-moving river sections.

Scientific Name: Ictiobus cyprinellus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These filter-feeding fish are distinguished by their large, terminal mouth (unlike other suckers with downward-facing mouths) and robust, laterally compressed body that can reach over 4 feet and 80 pounds.
  • Their coloration ranges from brownish olive to slate-blue with dusky fins, and older individuals may develop unique orange and black pigmentation markings.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit the Missouri River system and various reservoirs along the I-80 corridor.
  • Nebraska's population is native to the Mississippi River drainage basin, with the species well-adapted to the state's shallow lakes, reservoirs, and slow-moving river sections.

Key Locations

  • Missouri River system and various reservoirs along the I-80 corridor.
  • In Nebraska's I-80 corridor lakes and Missouri River system.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas with minimal current velocity (under 30 cm/sec), including river backwaters, oxbows, protected embayments, and the upstream portions of reservoirs during summer months.
  • The species forms schools and can be found in main river channels, backwaters, oxbows, and impoundments throughout the state, particularly in areas with minimal current and depths under 16 feet.

Bigmouth Buffalo FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Bigmouth Buffalo in Nebraska?

Small hooks hidden in heavily scented dough balls, bread balls, or corn, positioned near the bottom in slow-moving or still water. Flashy marabou jigs that act as attractors.

When is the best time to fish for Bigmouth Buffalo in Nebraska?

Spring and summer months are most productive, but avoid the April-June spawning period.

How do you catch Bigmouth Buffalo in Nebraska?

Still fishing and drift fishing techniques work best, with baits fished on or near the bottom. Bowfishing, particularly at night when they move into shallower water and become visible under lights.

What do Bigmouth Buffalo eat?

Bigmouth Buffalo are unique among catostomids as filter-feeders, using fine gill rakers to strain zooplankton, cladocerans, copepods, algae, and chironomids from the water column. Unlike their relatives, they feed both in the water column and near the bottom.

Where do Bigmouth Buffalo live in Nebraska?

They inhabit the Missouri River system and various reservoirs along the I-80 corridor. Nebraska's population is native to the Mississippi River drainage basin, with the species well-adapted to the state's shallow lakes, reservoirs, and slow-moving river sections.

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