Colorado Pikeminnow / Ptychocheilus lucius / Fish Database

Overview

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The Colorado Pikeminnow is the largest native minnow in North America and a federally endangered species. Anglers who catch one must keep it in the water and release it immediately.

Angler Photos

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Identifying

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Critically restricted to portions of the upper Colorado River basin — Colorado River near Grand Junction, lower Gunnison River, and Yampa River.

Habitat

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Large, warm, turbid rivers with sandy substrate and backwater areas. Historically the apex predator of the Colorado River system.

Water Conditions

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NOT targeted — federally protected. Release immediately if caught incidentally.

Tackle & Bait

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N/A — not a targeted species.

Top Locations

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NOT a targeted species. Keep fish in water, remove hook carefully, release immediately. Report catch to CPW.

Size & Sport

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N/A — federally endangered. All incidental catches must be released immediately.