Other names: Bay fish, Brook sucker, Common sucker, Mullet
The white sucker, Catostomus commersonii, is a freshwater fish native to North America, commonly found in rivers, lakes, and streams. It is recognized for its elongated body and bottom-feeding habits, often residing in clear, cool waters. This species is important in local ecosystems as a prey item for larger fish and is occasionally targeted by anglers, particularly during spawning runs.
Other names
Bay fish, Brook sucker, Common sucker, Mullet
Length
~30" (max 51)
Weight
~1" (max 3)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
15-27° F
Depth
45 ft
Berkley PowerBait
Bread
Bread or Dough Balls
Clams
Crabs
Crayfish
Doughballs
Earthworms
Flies
Garden wormsSorry. Regulation data is empty
Prefers clear, cool waters with moderate to strong currents, often found in rivers and streams
Typically resides near the bottom, feeding on detritus, algae, and small invertebrates
Can adapt to various aquatic environments, from small streams to large lakes
During spawning season, white suckers move to shallow, gravel-bottomed streams
Spawning occurs in early spring when water temperatures rise, often in tributary streams
Males migrate upstream to gravel beds, where females release eggs, which are then fertilized externally
Juveniles stay in shallow, slow-moving waters until they mature and migrate to deeper areas
Seasonal movements are common, with adults returning to larger bodies of water after spawning
