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White Sucker

White Sucker

The White Sucker is a native cypriniform fish found east of the Continental Divide in Wyoming, historically one of the most abundant fish species in large rivers.

Scientific Name: Catostomus commersonii

Physical Characteristics:
  • These cylindrically-shaped fish feature an olive-brown back transitioning to light yellowish sides and a whitish belly, with a distinctive fleshy, downward-pointing mouth that gives them their name.
  • In Wyoming, they typically reach 12-24 inches with the state record being a 22-inch, 5-pound 6.45-ounce fish caught from the Wind River.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They tolerate a wide range of habitats but prefer clear water and pool habitat in cool rivers, streams, and lakes.
  • Found east of the Continental Divide in Wyoming.

Key Locations

  • In Wyoming, they're found in the Wind River/Bighorn River system and are distributed throughout 24 different lakes and rivers statewide.
  • Target pool habitats in clear water areas of rivers and streams, particularly the Wind River and Bighorn River systems where they're native.

Specific Spots

  • Target pool habitats in clear water areas near the seam between fast and slower-moving water.
  • White suckers prefer areas with cover including exposed tree roots, brush, logs, undercut banks, and large boulders, so fish these structural elements in pools 61-90 cm deep.
  • Fish areas with gravel and rubble substrates mixed with sand and silt.
  • During active periods, look for their tails moving in the current in shallow water areas.

White Sucker FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

For bait, nightcrawlers are highly effective, placed on the bottom near the seam between fast and slower-moving water. Small baits work best since suckers need to suck food up from the bottom with their fleshy lips.

What flies work for White Sucker in Wyoming?

Green and red shad flies have shown success, along with single e.g.g patterns during steelhead season. Use bottom-bouncing nymphs and patterns that sink quickly to the bottom.

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

The best time to target White Suckers in Wyoming is during their active feeding periods from June through August when they're not focused on spawning. During spawning season, avoid targeting these fish as they focus on reproduction rather than feeding.

How do you catch White Sucker in Wyoming?

Use bottom-fishing techniques. For fly fishing, use bottom-bouncing nymphs and patterns that sink quickly to the bottom since they feed on benthic organisms. Small baits work best since suckers need to suck food up from the bottom with their fleshy lips.

What do White Sucker eat?

White suckers are bottom feeders with an omnivorous diet consisting primarily of insects (particularly chironomids), small invertebrates, aquatic plants, algae, detritus, amphipods, copepods, and small mollusks.

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