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Blue Sucker

Blue Sucker

The Blue Sucker is a large, long-lived member of the sucker family found in South Dakota's major river systems.

These distinctive fish have elongated, tubular bodies with downward-facing inferior mouths designed for bottom feeding, and can reach impressive sizes.

They're native bottom feeders that are considered a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in South Dakota, with populations showing signs of stress from habitat fragmentation caused by dams and channelization.

Scientific Name: Cycleptus elongatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Elongated, tubular bodies with downward-facing inferior mouths designed for bottom feeding.
  • Characterized by large, shiny deciduous scales, long falcate dorsal fins, and variable coloration ranging from light steel-gray to almost jet black, especially during spring.
  • The state record is 12 pounds 7 ounces.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in South Dakota's major river systems.
  • They prefer deep, swift channels of large rivers over sand, gravel, or rock substrates, and are tolerant of high turbidity if sufficient current prevents silt deposits.

Key Locations

  • Missouri River and its tributaries like the James, Big Sioux, Vermillion, White, and Cheyenne rivers.
  • Target the Missouri River system, particularly around Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and the tailwater areas below Gavins Point Dam, Fort Randall Dam, and Oahe Dam.
  • Fort Randall Tailrace (state record location).
  • Most commonly found in the Missouri River system, Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and the tailwaters below major dams.

Specific Spots

  • Look for wing dikes, revetted banks, bridge abutments, stilling basins, and other man-made structures that create the tough, swift-water habitat they prefer.
  • Blue Suckers are typically found hugging the bottom in main channel areas.
  • In reservoirs like Lake Oahe and Lake Sharpe, they may be found in deeper waters.

Blue Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Cut bait, nightcrawlers, or other natural baits that mimic their preferred diet of aquatic invertebrates.

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

Best fishing occurs from late fall through early spring (October through March) when they're in their feeding mode, avoiding the April-June spawning period. Winter fishing can be effective as they remain active in cold water.

How do you catch Blue Sucker in South Dakota?

Bottom-fishing techniques work best. These areas are often difficult to sample with conventional methods due to strong currents.

What do Blue Sucker eat?

Primarily consume aquatic insect larvae, crustaceans, plant materials, and algae, using their specialized sucker mouths to feed off river bottoms.

Where do Blue Sucker live in South Dakota?

Found in South Dakota's major river systems. They prefer deep, swift channels of large rivers over sand, gravel, or rock substrates, and are tolerant of high turbidity if sufficient current prevents silt deposits.

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