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Bigmouth Buffalo

Bigmouth Buffalo

The Bigmouth Buffalo is North America's largest member of the sucker family, capable of reaching over 4 feet in length and 80 pounds.

These remarkable fish are among the longest-lived freshwater species, capable of living over 125 years with some populations showing median ages near 80 years.

Scientific Name: Ictiobus cyprinellus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Capable of reaching over 4 feet in length and 80 pounds.
  • Unlike other suckers, have a unique terminal mouth and fine gill rakers (60+ on the first arch).
  • Can be confused with carp but lack the serrated dorsal spine that carp possess.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Part of the species' native range, which extends from Lake Erie through Ohio and Mississippi River basins to the Tennessee River in northern Alabama.
  • Inhabit main channels, pools, and backwaters of small to large rivers as well as lakes and impoundments.

Key Locations

  • Tennessee's rivers and reservoirs throughout the Mississippi River drainage, Tennessee River.

Specific Spots

  • Target slow-moving backwaters, oxbows, flooded vegetated areas, and large reservoirs.
  • Look for current edges, outside bends, drop-offs, areas near dams and falls, rock and boulder pockets, overhanging trees and bushes, and riparian zones.
  • Prefer water less than 5 meters deep.

Bigmouth Buffalo FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Bigmouth Buffalo in Tennessee?

Since small crustaceans comprise 90% of their diet, scented baits work better than live bait. Effective baits include bread or dough balls, small minnows, cut bait.

When is the best time to fish for Bigmouth Buffalo in Tennessee?

Avoid mid-May through June during spawning period when they're extremely vulnerable to exploitation.

How do you catch Bigmouth Buffalo in Tennessee?

Dr.ift fishing, still fishing, fly fishing, spin casting, and bowfishing (though bowfishing is contributing to population declines).

What do Bigmouth Buffalo eat?

Filter-feeders that strain zooplankton from the water. Diet consists primarily of cladocerans and copepods, supplemented with midge larvae, benthic insect larvae, crustaceans, and detritus. Small crustaceans comprise 90% of their diet.

Where do Bigmouth Buffalo live in Tennessee?

Part of the species' native range, which extends from Lake Erie through Ohio and Mississippi River basins to the Tennessee River in northern Alabama. Inhabit main channels, pools, and backwaters of small to large rivers as well as lakes and impoundments.

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Tennessee licenses and regulations

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