June Sucker

Body Type & Identification: A federally threatened sucker endemic to Utah Lake, Utah — found nowhere else. A robust sucker with distinctive body features adapted to the unique, turbid, highly productive Utah Lake ecosystem. Listed as Threatened under the US Endangered Species Act — population severely reduced by habitat alteration, non-native species competition, and water diversions.

Preferred Water Temperature: 58°F–72°F. Found in Utah Lake and the Provo River. Spawns in the Provo River when water conditions permit — spring spawning runs are closely monitored by recovery program scientists. Population slowly recovering due to intensive recovery efforts.

Habitat: Utah Lake and the Provo River, Utah — an extremely restricted range. Recovery efforts include habitat restoration, non-native fish removal, and hatchery supplementation. The Utah Lake Recovery Program is one of the most intensive freshwater fish recovery efforts in the western US.

Best Lures: N/A — federally threatened. No targeted fishing permitted.

Best Baits: N/A — protected species. If encountered incidentally, handle carefully and release immediately. Report sightings to USFWS and Utah DWR.

Top 5 Destinations: Not applicable — support Utah Lake recovery efforts through the June Sucker Recovery Implementation Program.