Black Buffalo
Black Buffalo are a threatened freshwater fish species in Wisconsin, with extremely limited distribution primarily in the southern and eastern parts of the state.
These native fish are found mainly in Lake Michigan waters and the Upper Rock River watershed, with historical records from Lac La Belle (now extirpated).
Scientific Name: Ictiobus niger
Also known as current buffalo, buoy tender
- Black Buffalo are distinguished from their relatives by their smaller mouths with thicker lips, more streamlined bodies, and darker gunmetal blue coloration lacking the brassy luster of Bigmouth Buffalo.
- They typically measure 20-30 inches and weigh 10-30 pounds, though specimens over 80 pounds have been recorded.
Fishing in Wisconsin
Wisconsin River
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
Lake Poygan
Castle Rock Lake
Spencer Lake
Little Wolf River
Wolf River
Fox River
McDill Pond
Wisconsin River Flowage
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- They inhabit large rivers, backwaters, reservoirs, and impoundments.
- Black Buffalo prefer deep freshwater with strong currents.
Key Locations
- Lake Michigan waters and the Upper Rock River watershed, with historical records from Lac La Belle (now extirpated).
Specific Spots
- Focus efforts on tailwater areas below dams, deep river channels, and outside bends of rivers where current concentrates food sources.
- Areas with moderate to swift currents over sand, gravel, or rocky substrates.
Black Buffalo FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
When is the best time to fish for Black Buffalo in Wisconsin?
Best fishing opportunities occur from May through September, with peak activity during summer months when water temperatures are warmest. Avoid fishing during spawning periods (late April through June) when fish are in shallow spawning areas.
How do you catch Black Buffalo in Wisconsin?
Traditional hook-and-line fishing, modern techniques suggest bowfishing at night in shallow waters, bottom-fishing approaches since they feed primarily on benthic organisms.
What do Black Buffalo eat?
Feeding primarily on benthic organisms including the invasive Asiatic clam (Corbicula), algae, diatoms, small mollusks, aquatic insects and larvae, small crustaceans, and aquatic vegetation including duckweed.
Where do Black Buffalo live in Wisconsin?
They inhabit large rivers, backwaters, reservoirs, and impoundments. Black Buffalo prefer deep freshwater with strong currents.
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