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Blue Sucker

Blue Sucker

Blue Sucker is an endangered species in Ohio with extremely limited distribution, found in only 4 streams from 1979-1995 with just 9 total sites recorded.

This large sucker species can reach up to 93 cm in length and live over 40 years, making it one of Ohio's most impressive freshwater fish.

Scientific Name: Cycleptus elongatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • This large sucker species can reach up to 93 cm in length.
  • Blue Suckers are bottom feeders with an inferior mouth position.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Blue Suckers prefer large river systems with strong currents, gravel or rock bottoms, and relatively silt-free water.

Key Locations

  • Blue Suckers are primarily found in the Ohio River and its major tributaries.
  • While only 4 streams contained Blue Suckers during extensive surveys from 1979-1995, they were primarily found in larger river systems, particularly the Ohio River.

Specific Spots

  • They inhabit the main channels and flowing pools with moderate current (1.0-2.6 meters/sec), often occupying the thalweg (deepest part) of rivers in heavy current areas.
  • Target the deepest parts of pools and areas with gravel or rock bottoms that remain relatively silt-free.
  • Adults typically winter in deep pools.

Blue Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Blue Sucker in Ohio?

Given their diet of aquatic insects, larvae, crustaceans, and mollusks, effective baits might include crayfish, aquatic worms, or insect imitations.

When is the best time to fish for Blue Sucker in Ohio?

Best fishing opportunities would theoretically occur outside of spawning season (avoid March-June). Spawning activity peaks around April when they should be avoided by anglers.

How do you catch Blue Sucker in Ohio?

Successful techniques would involve presenting baits or lures near the substrate since Blue Suckers are bottom feeders with inferior mouths.

What do Blue Sucker eat?

Blue Suckers have an omnivorous diet consisting of aquatic insects, insect larvae, crustaceans, plant materials, algae, and small mollusks like clams. They use their inferior mouth position to forage along the bottom substrate.

Where do Blue Sucker live in Ohio?

Blue Suckers prefer large river systems with strong currents, gravel or rock bottoms, and relatively silt-free water.

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