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White Sucker

White Sucker

White Sucker are not native to Utah but have been introduced to limited areas within the Colorado River system.

This species is considered non-native with only a few documented occurrences statewide, earning it an SNA (State Not Applicable) ranking from Utah wildlife officials.

Adult White Suckers are opportunistic bottom feeders with distinctive fleshy, papillose lips that allow them to suck up organic matter from lake and stream bottoms.

Scientific Name: Catostomus commersonii

Physical Characteristics:
  • They typically reach 12-20 inches in length and weigh 2-6 pounds, with a torpedo-shaped body, dark greenish-brown back, and light underbelly.
  • They have distinctive fleshy, papillose lips.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Primarily in the Green River east of Vernal and Willard Bay Reservoir within the Colorado River system.
  • White Suckers prefer a variety of lake and stream habitats and are highly adaptable to different environmental conditions, tolerating turbid and polluted waters better than many native species.

Key Locations

  • Green River sections east of Vernal and Willard Bay Reservoir.

Specific Spots

  • Fish the deeper pools, slower-moving sections, and areas with soft substrates like sand or mud where they forage for invertebrates and organic matter.
  • In streams, target areas below riffles and in deeper pools where organic matter collects.

White Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for White Sucker in Utah?

Effective baits include nightcrawlers, worms, small pieces of corn, and dough balls fished on or near the bottom.

When is the best time to fish for White Sucker in Utah?

Spring months from March through May when they're most active, though avoid the actual spawning period when water temperatures reach 50°F.

How do you catch White Sucker in Utah?

Use bottom-fishing techniques since White Suckers are primarily bottom feeders. Fish the deeper pools, slower-moving sections, and areas with soft substrates like sand or mud where they forage for invertebrates and organic matter. In streams, target areas below riffles and in deeper pools where organic matter collects.

What do White Sucker eat?

Their diet consists of small invertebrates, algae, plant matter, chironomid larvae, zooplankton, small crustaceans, and organic detritus.

Where do White Sucker live in Utah?

Primarily in the Green River east of Vernal and Willard Bay Reservoir within the Colorado River system. White Suckers prefer a variety of lake and stream habitats and are highly adaptable to different environmental conditions, tolerating turbid and polluted waters better than many native species.

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