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White Sucker

White Sucker

White Sucker in North Dakota are native, bottom-dwelling fish found in both rivers and lakes throughout the state.

They serve as important forage for predator species like walleye, northern pike, bass, and catfish, playing a crucial ecological role in North Dakota's aquatic ecosystems.

Scientific Name: Catostomus commersonii

Physical Characteristics:
  • Characterized by sucker-like mouths with large lips, no spines in their fins, large numbers of small scales, and coloring that ranges from dark above to light below, becoming darker during spawning season.
  • In North Dakota waters, they can reach 12-20 inches and weigh 2-6 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in both rivers and lakes throughout the state.
  • Inhabit diverse water bodies statewide.

Key Locations

  • Red and Bois de Sioux rivers, Missouri River system, Lake Darling in Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge, and various lakes statewide.

Specific Spots

  • Prefer areas with slower currents, pools with cover like logs and brush, and depths of 21-110 cm.
  • Focus on deeper pools and structure like submerged logs, brush, or undercut banks.

White Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for White Sucker in North Dakota?

Garden worms and nightcrawlers are the most effective baits, with smaller pieces improving hook-up ratios though whole worms can attract larger fish.

When is the best time to fish for White Sucker in North Dakota?

Avoid fishing for them during their spring spawning period (April-June) when water temperatures reach 50°F. Most accessible outside of spawning season.

How do you catch White Sucker in North Dakota?

Bottom fishing techniques. Focus on areas with slower currents, deeper pools, and structure like submerged logs, brush, or undercut banks. Target depths of 2-4 feet in pools and slower water areas.

What do White Sucker eat?

Opportunistic bottom feeders with varied diets including chironomid larvae, pupae, fingernail clams, amphipods, gastropods, aquatic insects, small invertebrates, algae, and plant matter.

Where do White Sucker live in North Dakota?

Found in both rivers and lakes throughout the state. Inhabit diverse water bodies statewide.

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