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Black Buffalo

Black Buffalo

Black Buffalo (Ictiobus niger) are thick-bodied native fish belonging to the sucker family found in Nebraska's large rivers in eastern parts of the state, some adjacent sandpits, and Carter Lake in Omaha.

These non-game fish have small, thick-lipped mouths positioned near the underside of their heads with slate to bronze coloring and a greenish overcast.

Scientific Name: Ictiobus niger

Physical Characteristics:
  • Thick-bodied native fish with small, thick-lipped mouths positioned near the underside of their heads with slate to bronze coloring and a greenish overcast.
  • They're more slender than other buffalo species.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Black Buffalo prefer pools and backwaters of small to large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes, often in strong currents.

Key Locations

  • Large rivers in eastern parts of the state, some adjacent sandpits, and Carter Lake in Omaha.
  • Target locations with soft or muddy bottoms in large rivers of eastern Nebraska where Black Buffalo are likely to feed, particularly the Central and Lower Platte drainages and adjacent sandpits.

Specific Spots

  • Look for slow-moving waters with moderate vegetation and muddy or sandy bottoms.
  • Target locations with soft or muddy bottoms in large rivers of eastern Nebraska where Black Buffalo are likely to feed.

Black Buffalo FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Plant-based baits such as corn, dough balls, or algae-based bait can attract them given their herbivorous nature.

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

Bowfishing has become a more popular and effective method for Black Buffalo, particularly in shallow waters during late spring when they move closer to the surface, though this should be done outside of spawning periods (April-May).

How do you catch Black Buffalo in Nebraska?

When rod and reel fishing is attempted, bottom-fishing with heavy weights and strong lines is recommended. Bowfishing has become a more popular and effective method for Black Buffalo, particularly in shallow waters during late spring.

What do Black Buffalo eat?

Black Buffalo are bottom-feeders that consume invertebrates like zooplankton, insects, small clams, and attached algae, with the introduced Asiatic clam reportedly being the largest part of their diet. They also feed on small mussels, diatoms, crustaceans, water plants including duckweed, and native mollusk species.

Where do Black Buffalo live in Nebraska?

Black Buffalo prefer pools and backwaters of small to large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes, often in strong currents.

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