WikiCatch
Sacramento pikeminnow

Sacramento pikeminnow

Ptychocheilus grandis

Family
Cyprinidae
Max Length
140 cm
Max Weight
5.2 kg
IUCN Status
LC
Water Type
freshwater
Fishing Spots
171

Overview

The Sacramento pikeminnow, formerly known as the Sacramento squawfish, is a large species of freshwater ray-finned fish belonging to the family Leuciscidae, the daces, chubs, Eurasian minnows and related species. This species is endemic to California in the United States. It is native to the Los Angeles River, Sacramento-San Joaquin, Pajaro-Salinas, Russian River, Clear Lake and upper Pit River river basins. It is predatory and reaches up to 1.4 m (4.6 ft) in total length.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Small minnows

    Hook behind the dorsal fin.

  • Nightcrawlers

    Use a whole worm on a circle hook.

  • Crayfish

    Remove the claws for easier hookup.

  • Grasshoppers

    Effective during summer months.

  • Shiners

    Lively shiners attract larger fish.

Artificial Lures

  • Rapala Original Floater 07Crankbait

    Retrieve slowly near cover.

    Buy
  • Mepps Aglia #3Spinner

    Silver or gold blades work well.

    Buy
  • Zoom Trick WormSoft Plastic

    Texas-rigged or weightless.

    Buy
  • Daredevle SpoonSpoon

    Classic red and white pattern.

    Buy
  • Strike King KVD Sexy DawgTopwater

    Walk-the-dog retrieve is deadly.

    Buy

Techniques

Target Sacramento pikeminnow in areas with structure like submerged logs or rocky banks, especially during dawn and dusk when they're most active.

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Where to Find Sacramento pikeminnow

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for Sacramento pikeminnow?+

Popular baits for Sacramento pikeminnow include Small minnows, Nightcrawlers, Crayfish, Grasshoppers, Shiners. Tip: Target Sacramento pikeminnow in areas with structure like submerged logs or rocky banks, especially during dawn and dusk when they're most active.

Where can I catch Sacramento pikeminnow?+

Sacramento pikeminnow can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include California, United States; New York, United States. WikiCatch lists 171 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do Sacramento pikeminnow get?+

Sacramento pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus grandis) can reach up to 139.999998 cm in length and 5.19 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.

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