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White Sucker

White Sucker

White Sucker is one of Wisconsin's most widespread native fish species, found throughout the state from the Great Lakes to inland streams and lakes.

According to Wisconsin fisheries expert George Becker, it's 'probably the most widespread of all fishes in Wisconsin' and is particularly common in southeastern Wisconsin waters, even tolerating highly polluted conditions.

Scientific Name: Catostomus commersonii

Physical Characteristics:
  • These bottom-feeding fish are distinguished by their cylindrical, torpedo-like bodies with distinctive fleshy, papillose lips positioned on the underside of their heads for vacuuming sediments and organisms from stream and lake bottoms.
  • Adults typically reach 12-20 inches and weigh 2-6 pounds, with olive-brown to black coloration on their backs and lighter undersides.
  • During spawning, males develop golden coloration with dark lateral stripes.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found throughout the state from the Great Lakes to inland streams and lakes, showing remarkable adaptability to various water qualities and temperatures.

Key Locations

  • Productive locations include the Milwaukee River system, tributaries around Lake Michigan, Wisconsin River, and various inland waters.
  • Major spawning runs occur in tributaries like the Milwaukee River, Menomonee River, and Oak Creek.
  • They inhabit diverse waters from the Milwaukee River system and Great Lakes tributaries to inland lakes like those in the Winnebago system.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas include current breaks, eddies, deep pools, and slack water behind logjams and fallen trees in Wisconsin streams.
  • Look for areas below dams, waterfalls, and stream confluences where suckers congregate.

White Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Garden worms and nightcrawlers are the most effective baits, cut into smaller pieces for better hookup ratios.

What flies work for White Sucker in Wisconsin?

Focus on flies that sink quickly to the bottom like nymphs, scuds, and worm patterns. Popular fly patterns include sucker spawn e.g.g patterns in natural chartreuse, single e.g.g flies, and bottom-bouncing nymphs.

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

Late spring through early fall when they're concentrated in deeper pools and feeding heavily. Avoid fishing during their March-May spawning runs when they should be left undisturbed.

How do you catch White Sucker in Wisconsin?

Fish on or near the bottom as these are dedicated bottom feeders. Use polarized glasses to spot their tails moving in the current. Success often requires patience and persistence in proven locations.

What do White Sucker eat?

White suckers are omnivorous opportunists, feeding on small invertebrates, chironomid larvae, aquatic insects, algae, plant matter, fish e.g.gs, mollusks, and detritus.

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