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White Sucker

White Sucker

White Sucker (Catostomus commersonii) are widespread throughout Washington's freshwater systems, though they are not native to the Pacific Northwest and were introduced to the Colorado River drainage system.

Scientific Name: Catostomus commersonii

Physical Characteristics:

Bottom-feeding fish with distinctive downward-facing sucker mouths and can reach up to 20 inches and 5 pounds in Washington waters. They have cylindrical bodies with fine scales, greenish backs with brassy or silvery sides, and white bellies.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Inhabit a variety of waters including streams, rivers, and lakes throughout Washington's freshwater systems

Key Locations

Tumwater Creek in Lewis County, Dubuque Creek in Snohomish County, and Mill Creek in Clark County

Specific Spots

Target them in current breaks, eddies, deep pools, and slack water areas behind logjams and structure. Look for them near tributary mouths and below dams or waterfalls where they congregate. Fish deep pools and slower water areas, as White Suckers prefer areas with reduced current flow but some water movement.

White Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What flies work for White Sucker in Washington?

Patterns that sink quickly to the bottom - scud patterns, nymphs, and worm imitations. Small egg patterns in golden-yellow colors, particularly #16 patterns in colors like 'sweetcorn.' Green and red shad flies.

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

Spring through early summer, with peak action occurring during their pre-spawn period before water temperatures reach 50°F

How do you catch White Sucker in Washington?

Focus on sight fishing when possible, casting well upstream to allow flies to reach bottom before reaching the fish. Pack baits made from bread crumbs mixed with corn can be molded around sinkers to create attractive chum trails.

What do White Sucker eat?

Diet consists primarily of bottom organisms including aquatic invertebrates, diatoms, algae, debris, chironomid larvae, and benthic insects. They are opportunistic feeders that vacuum food from stream and lake bottoms.

Where do White Sucker live in Washington?

Inhabit a variety of waters including streams, rivers, and lakes throughout Washington's freshwater systems

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