Northern Hogsucker
The Northern Hog Sucker is a freshwater fish known for its unique, elongated snout, which it uses to forage along the bottom of clear streams and rivers. This species is commonly found in temperate regions of North America, particularly within the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins. It prefers habitats with rocky substrates where it can feed on small invertebrates, especially benthic insects and snails.
Length~20 (max 33)
Weight~1 (max 2)
WaterFresh
Water Temp11-23° F
- Other names-
- Length~20 (max 33)
- Weight~1 (max 2)
- WaterFresh
- Water Temp11-23° F
Popular lures for Northern Hogsucker
Regulation for Northern Hogsucker
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Living Conditions
🐟 Habitat preferences
- Northern Hog Suckers thrive in clear creeks and small rivers with rocky riffles, runs, and pools
- They are occasionally found in larger rivers but prefer smaller water bodies with well-oxygenated water
- Their diet primarily consists of immature stages of benthic insects and snails, which they suck up by disturbing the stream bottom
- They are more active in environments with minimal siltation, where they can easily access food
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- The spawning of Northern Hog Suckers typically occurs in the spring, with adults migrating to shallow, fast-flowing streams
- Males create nests by cleaning gravel patches, where females deposit their eggs
- Post-spawning, they retreat to deeper waters, though they are often seen in shallow areas during cooler parts of the day
- Juveniles stay in calmer, shallow waters until they mature and are able to navigate stronger currents