White Sucker
White Sucker is a native species widely distributed throughout South Dakota's waters, found in over 100 fish species documented in the state.
These bottom-feeding fish are omnivorous and prefer pool habitats with cover around logs, brush, undercut banks, and debris.
Scientific Name: Catostomus commersonii
- Distinctive downward-facing inferior mouths with thick, fleshy papillose lips adapted for sucking up sediments and organisms from lake and stream bottoms.
- They typically reach 12-20 inches in length and weigh 2-6 pounds.
Fishing in South Dakota
James River
Richmond Lake
Lake Parmley
Willow Creek Lake
Elm River
North Scatterwood Lake
Elm Lake
Amsden Lake
Columbia Road Reservoir
South Scatterwood Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Inhabit diverse water types across South Dakota including warm-water habitats that exceed 75°F in summer, cool-water spring-fed streams in the Black Hills, and tailwater reaches below dams.
- Found throughout major drainages.
Key Locations
- Missouri River system, Black Hills streams like Spearfish Creek, Belle Fourche Reservoir, Pactola Reservoir, Rush Lake (state record location), spring-fed streams throughout the state particularly in the Black Hills region and along escarpments like the Missouri River Bluffs.
Specific Spots
- Focus on pools with slower current (10-15 cm/sec flow), particularly areas with depths of 2-3 feet (61-90 cm preferred) that have logs, brush piles, or undercut banks for cover.
- Look for tributary pools connected to main water bodies, as they require some water movement and avoid completely isolated pools.
- In reservoirs, they inhabit bays and nearshore areas.
White Sucker FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for White Sucker in South Dakota?
Natural baits including nightcrawlers, red worms, and small crayfish presented on or near the bottom.
When is the best time to fish for White Sucker in South Dakota?
Late spring through fall after spawning concludes. During spawning period (April through early May), avoid targeting them as they focus on reproduction rather than feeding.
How do you catch White Sucker in South Dakota?
Target White Suckers from late spring through fall after spawning concludes, focusing on deeper pools and areas with cover structure. Early morning and evening hours can be productive when they move into slightly shallower water to feed.
What do White Sucker eat?
Feed on benthic invertebrates, chironomid larvae, algae, mollusks, small fish, fish e.g.gs, aquatic plants, and detritus.
Where do White Sucker live in South Dakota?
Inhabit diverse water types across South Dakota including warm-water habitats that exceed 75°F in summer, cool-water spring-fed streams in the Black Hills, and tailwater reaches below dams. Found throughout major drainages.
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