Poplar Bluff man sets new state record with Spotted Sucker fish

A new state record was set April 3 when Tyler Goodale of Poplar Bluff reeled in a Spotted Sucker fish at Duck Creek Conservation Area (CA).  Goodale’s sucker fish weighed 3.65 lbs

. and measured 18.2 inches.  The former state record Spotted Sucker was caught in 1992 at Wappapello Lake and weighed 2 lbs., 1 ounce, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC).

The Spotted Sucker is a moderately slender, coarse-scaled sucker fish with a short dorsal fin containing 11 or 12 rays. This species is distinguished from other Missouri suckers by the presence of several parallel rows of prominent dark spots along the side. These fish are olive-brown on the back with dark edgings on the scales. Their sides are silvery or brassy-yellow. Adults are commonly 9.2 to 15.9 inches long and weigh about .3 to 2 pounds. 

Spotted suckers are common fish and generally distributed in the lowlands of southeast Missouri and adjacent sections of the Ozarks. Scattered populations occur elsewhere. This fish species prefers clear, warm waters with no to minimal current and an abundance of aquatic vegetation. 

For more information about record fish or fishing opportunities in Missouri, go online to mdc.mo.gov.