Other names: -
The smallmouth buffalo is a large, robust freshwater fish native to North America. It has a deep, laterally compressed body with a bronze or grayish-brown color. Found in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, this species prefers slow-moving waters with muddy or silty bottoms. Though not as popular in sport fishing, it is valued for its role in commercial fishing and for its firm, white flesh.
Other names
-
Length
~50" (max 101)
Weight
~21" (max 30)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
15-18° F
Depth
1-6 ft
Beans
Blood worms
Corn
Dough balls
Doughballs
Flies
Insects
Nightcrawlers
Peas
Whopper PlopperAlways open
25
16"
Total length
Smallmouth buffalo thrive in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and reservoirs with muddy or silty bottoms where they can forage for food
They prefer areas with abundant organic matter, feeding primarily on detritus, plankton, and small invertebrates they sift from the bottom
This species is often found in deeper waters during the day, moving to shallower areas at night to feed
Smallmouth buffalo are adaptable and can tolerate turbid waters, making them common in habitats where other fish may struggle
Spawning occurs in the spring, often triggered by rising water levels and increasing temperatures
Smallmouth buffalo spawn in shallow waters with vegetation, where eggs are broadcast over the substrate and left to develop on their own
Juveniles remain in shallow nursery areas rich in food and protection until they grow large enough to join adult populations in deeper waters
Seasonal movements are common, with these fish moving to spawning grounds in the spring and returning to deeper, more stable environments as water temperatures change
