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Spotted Sucker

Spotted Sucker

The Spotted Sucker is a medium-sized catostomid native to Ohio. In Ohio, they're considered a Class A aquaculture species and their populations have been declining in some areas.

Spotted Suckers are sensitive indicators of water quality - their presence indicates good environmental conditions.

Scientific Name: Minytrema melanops

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by 8-12 parallel rows of dark spots at the base of each scale, giving them the appearance of longitudinal rows of small black spots along their sides.
  • They typically average 12-18 inches in length, with maximum sizes reaching about 19 inches and weights up to 2.6 pounds.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit long deep pools of small to medium rivers over clay, sand, or gravel substrates, preferring clear waters with firm bottoms and minimal siltation.

Key Locations

  • Western basin of Lake Erie, Ohio River embayments, slower-moving streams throughout the state, man-made reservoirs like Indian Lake and Hoover Reservoir, Ohio River bays and creek mouths.

Specific Spots

  • Look for areas with clay, sand, or gravel bottoms and avoid heavily silted waters.
  • Target deeper pools during late fall and winter, but focus on shallower areas and riffle zones during warmer months.

Spotted Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Nightcrawlers are the most effective choice - break them into halves or thirds to make them last longer. Other productive baits include red worms, leeches, small crayfish, and minnows.

What flies work for Spotted Sucker in Ohio?

Wet fly patterns such as nymph and scud patterns, along with flies that imitate worms and fish e.g.gs.

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

Late spring through early fall when they're actively feeding. Avoid April-May spawning season. Target deeper pools during late fall and winter, but focus on shallower areas and riffle zones during warmer months.

How do you catch Spotted Sucker in Ohio?

Keep your rig near the bottom where they feed. Use slip float or bobber a few feet above to keep the bait moving attractively in shallow waters while maintaining bottom contact.

What do Spotted Sucker eat?

They feed primarily on organic fragments, small crustaceans (copepods, cladocerans), chironomids (midge larvae), diatoms, and other benthic invertebrates.

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