Other names: -
The largescale sucker is a freshwater fish found in North America, particularly in the rivers and lakes of the Pacific Northwest. It is recognized by its large, thick lips and streamlined body, adapted for bottom feeding. Largescale suckers prefer habitats with slow-moving waters and are often seen in groups. While not typically sought after for sport fishing, they play an important role in their ecosystem as both prey and a consumer of various aquatic invertebrates and algae.
Other names
-
Length
~10" (max 61)
Weight
~2" (max 3)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
24-32° F
Doughballs
Shrimp
WormsAlways open
No
No
Largescale suckers inhabit slow-moving rivers and lakes, particularly those with sandy or muddy bottoms
They are bottom-dwellers, feeding primarily on algae, small invertebrates, and detritus found on the substrate
These fish are most commonly found in deeper pools or runs within larger rivers, where the water flow is slower
They are often preyed upon by larger fish, birds, and mammals, which influences their preference for sheltered, deeper waters
Largescale suckers spawn in the spring when water temperatures rise, typically migrating to shallow areas with gravelly bottoms
The male establishes a territory and prepares a site for spawning, where the female then deposits her eggs
After spawning, there is no parental care, and the eggs are left to develop on their own
Juvenile suckers remain in shallow, protected areas until they are large enough to join adult populations in deeper waters
