Largescale Sucker
Catostomus macrocheilus
Largescale suckers are native western freshwater fish with dark olive-gray backs and sides that change to a pale or yellowish underside. Their long-based dorsal fin usually has 13–15 rays, and the lateral line typically has 62–80 scales. They feed on organisms along the bottom and occur in both lakes and flowing waters. Similar sucker species require careful identification; check local fishing rules rather than treating a species record as permission to harvest.
Streams and lakes, with spawning over gravel riffles or along lake margins. Young fish use quiet backwaters and lakes. Recorded presence does not guarantee fish at every access point.
Photo credit and sources
Historical largescale sucker illustration from Evermann's work published in 1893, credited by the Freshwater and Marine Image Bank. Resized/recompressed. This illustration is not a photograph or evidence of a current sighting.
Photo: Barton W. Evermann / University of Washington Freshwater and Marine Image Bank — Public domain
Species information reviewed 2026-10-17. Photos show representative fish, not fish photographed at every linked water.
Largescale Sucker Habitat & Size
Largescale Sucker (Catostomus macrocheilus) is associated with lake water, reservoir water, river water, and stream water in the species record. Habitat information describes the species, not permission to fish for it.
Recorded Waters for Largescale Sucker
FishFinder links Largescale Sucker to water records in Idaho. These associations may reflect documented presence, seasonal runs, or historical stocking, not angler catch reports or current abundance. Read the linked water guides and source notes for evidence dates and reaches.
Largescale Sucker Fishing Regulations & Limits
A recorded association does not establish that targeting or retaining Largescale Sucker is permitted. Confirm current species protections, seasonal and emergency closures, reach-specific rules, gear restrictions, bag and size limits with the responsible fisheries authority before fishing. A fishing license does not override these restrictions. FishFinder's regulation records may be incomplete; missing rules do not mean unrestricted fishing.
Related Water Guides for Largescale Sucker
Explore these FishFinder water guides for places where Largescale Sucker is recorded:
Equipment planning for Largescale Sucker
We have not selected a species-specific affiliate setup for this guide. First establish whether targeting is permitted at your destination; no tackle recommendation should be inferred from a species record.
Equipment guidance is not permission to fish. Confirm the exact water, date, species, method and current official rules first. A closed season prohibits targeting, even with release. Recorded fish presence does not establish an open fishery.
- Check permitted methods, bait and hook restrictions before choosing tackle. Match rod, line and lure ratings to the lawful method and conditions, rather than buying by species name alone.
- Plan weather protection, drinking water and a way to call for help. For boat trips, confirm required flotation and safety equipment with the responsible boating authority.
- Read the habitat and water-specific source notes in this guide, then confirm an appropriate lawful method with the local fisheries authority before choosing equipment. Do not assume a general freshwater combo suits every species or water.
This is an editorial planning checklist, not hands-on product testing. Use equipment you already own when suitable. The gear directory contains affiliate links; any product suggestions below have their own disclosure. Retailer region, availability and Canadian shipping are not guaranteed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What water types are associated with Largescale Sucker?
The species record associates Largescale Sucker (Catostomus macrocheilus) with lake water, reservoir water, river water, and stream water. Habitat information is not evidence of current abundance or permission to target the species.
Where does FishFinder record water associations for Largescale Sucker?
FishFinder links Largescale Sucker to water records in Idaho. These associations may reflect documented presence, seasonal runs, or historical stocking, not angler catch reports. Check the linked water guides and source notes for evidence dates and reaches; a listing does not guarantee current presence or legal fishing opportunity.
Does a listing or fishing license permit fishing for Largescale Sucker?
No. A listing records an association, not permission to target or retain Largescale Sucker. License requirements and exemptions vary. Confirm current species protections, seasonal and emergency closures, reach-specific rules, gear restrictions, bag and size limits with the responsible fisheries authority. A license does not override restrictions, and missing FishFinder regulation records do not mean unrestricted fishing.