Black Buffalo
Black Buffalo are not native to North Carolina but were historically stocked in the Pee Dee and Catawba river drainages in the early 1900s as part of buffalo fish introductions.
These large catostomid fish are bottom-feeders that can live over 24 years and reach substantial sizes, with some specimens exceeding 80 pounds, making them powerful fighters when hooked.
Scientific Name: Ictiobus niger
These large catostomid fish are characterized by their slate to bronze coloration with greenish overcast, bronze sides, and lighter belly.
They have dark olive to slate fins, broadly rounded heads with small mouths containing fragile pharyngeal teeth, and distinctive sickle-shaped dorsal fins with 27-31 rays.
Fishing in North Carolina
Deep River
Badin Lake
Lake Tillery
Yadkin River
Haw River
Cape Fear River
New Hope Creek
Eno River
Uwharrie River
Back Creek Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
They prefer deeper waters than other buffalo species, inhabiting pools and backwaters of medium to large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes with strong currents.Key Locations
French Broad River system where reintroduction efforts have occurred, and Lake Gaston.Specific Spots
Target areas with muddy or sandy bottoms near aquatic vegetation, current breaks, and deeper pools.Black Buffalo FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Black Buffalo in North Carolina?
Effective baits include corn, dough balls, earthworms, and plant-based attractants that mimic their herbivorous diet. Pack baits made from oats, cream corn, and calf manna can attract and hold fish in an area.
When is the best time to fish for Black Buffalo in North Carolina?
Fish during warmer months from late spring through early fall when they're most active, avoiding April-May spawning periods. Water temperatures between 60-75°F provide optimal fishing conditions.
How do you catch Black Buffalo in North Carolina?
Bottom-fishing with heavy weights is essential. Hair rigs and blowback rigs work well to accommodate their subtle feeding style where they investigate baits thoroughly before committing.
What do Black Buffalo eat?
Black Buffalo are bottom-feeders with a primarily benthic diet, consuming algae, diatoms, small crustaceans, native mollusks, insects, aquatic plants including duckweed, and notably large quantities of introduced Asiatic clams.
Where do Black Buffalo live in North Carolina?
They prefer deeper waters than other buffalo species, inhabiting pools and backwaters of medium to large rivers, reservoirs, and lakes with strong currents.
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