Northern Hogsucker

Body Type & Identification: Northern Hogsucker is a member of the sucker family (Catostomidae) — characterized by a downturned, fleshy lips adapted for vacuuming invertebrates and algae from the stream bottom. Typically 10–18 inches and 0.5–2 lbs. Mottled brown and black with distinctive saddle marks and a broad, flattened head. A fascinating stream fish to observe — can be seen rooting under stones in clear streams

Preferred Water Temperature: 55°F–70°F. A cool to warm-water bottom species most common in clear, clean rivers and streams. Suckers spawn in spring over gravel and rocky riffles — spawning runs can be spectacular and are an important early season food source for eagles and other predators.

Habitat: Found in clear, rocky streams throughout the Great Lakes drainage and Mississippi River tributaries from New York to Oklahoma. A rocky-stream specialist that uses its downturned, hog-like snout and broad head to root under rocks for invertebrates. Found in fast riffles and runs with clean gravel and rocky bottom. An important ecological role — 'uncovers' invertebrates that other fish then eat An important prey species for larger predators including Muskellunge, Northern Pike, and Striped Bass — large suckers are outstanding live bait.

Best Lures: Rarely taken on artificial lures. Occasionally caught on small jigs bounced near the bottom.

Best Baits: Nightcrawlers are the top bait. Small worm pieces work well. Fresh crayfish tails produce results. Small pieces of clam are effective. Light to medium bottom rigs with natural bait near current breaks in clear rivers.

Top 5 Destinations: Found throughout their respective river systems — suckers are widespread but seldom destination-fished. Spring spawning runs in clear Midwest and eastern rivers attract significant angler interest.

Northern Hogsucker is a member of the sucker family (Catostomidae) — characterized by a downturned, fleshy lips adapted for vacuuming invertebrates and algae from the stream bottom. Typically 10–18 inches and 0.5–2 lbs. Mottled brown and black with distinctive saddle marks and a broad, flattened head. A fascinating stream fish to observe — can be seen rooting under stones in clear streams

Found in clear, rocky streams throughout the Great Lakes drainage and Mississippi River tributaries from New York to Oklahoma. A rocky-stream specialist that uses its downturned, hog-like snout and broad head to root under rocks for invertebrates. Found in fast riffles and runs with clean gravel and rocky bottom. An important ecological role — 'uncovers' invertebrates that other fish then eat An important prey species for larger predators including Muskellunge, Northern Pike, and Striped Bass — large suckers are outstanding live bait.

55°F–70°F. A cool to warm-water bottom species most common in clear, clean rivers and streams. Suckers spawn in spring over gravel and rocky riffles — spawning runs can be spectacular and are an important early season food source for eagles and other predators.

Best Lures: Rarely taken on artificial lures. Occasionally caught on small jigs bounced near the bottom. Best Baits: Nightcrawlers are the top bait. Small worm pieces work well. Fresh crayfish tails produce results. Small pieces of clam are effective. Light to medium bottom rigs with natural bait near current breaks in clear rivers.

Found throughout their respective river systems — suckers are widespread but seldom destination-fished. Spring spawning runs in clear Midwest and eastern rivers attract significant angler interest.