Species guide

How to catch Bigmouth buffalo

Ictiobus cyprinellus

Stylized 2D illustration of Bigmouth buffalo
freshwatergame fishCatostomidae

The bigmouth buffalo is a large freshwater fish known for its distinctive big mouth and fusiform body shape. It is popular among anglers and can grow over a meter long and weigh up to 32 kilograms. This species is found in various freshwater habitats including rivers and lakes.

Where they live

Found in North America, Asia, and Europe, the bigmouth buffalo inhabits main channels, pools, and backwaters of rivers, as well as lakes and impoundments, often in shallow waters up to 4 meters deep.

Typical size

Up to about 123 cm

What they eat

  • phytoplankton
  • insects
  • crustaceans
  • mollusks

Best baits

  • worms
  • insect larvae
  • corn

Best lures

  • soft plastic baits
  • jigs
  • topwater lures

How to fish for them

  • float fishing
  • bottom fishing
  • casting with lures

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