Identification and Range
This profile covers Cottus baileyi, the Black Sculpin of the upper Tennessee drainage. A dark sculpin from another river is not automatically this species; locality is an important part of checking an identification.
Size and Weight
The verified species summary gives a maximum total length of 8.4 cm, about 3.3 inches, and a common length near 6 cm. A dependable measured maximum body weight was not available. Length-to-weight estimates are not substituted for an actual weighed specimen.
Habitat and Feeding
Springs and rocky riffles in headwaters and creeks provide its characteristic setting. In a summer study of 300 fish from the upper South Fork Holston drainage, feeding continued through daylight hours and reflected available food. That local result describes flexible feeding rather than a single universally preferred prey.
Fishing Context
Black Sculpin is chiefly a stream biodiversity species rather than an established sport-fishing target. No species-specific bait or artificial-lure recommendation was verified for this profile. Its presence is best understood in the context of small rocky streams, rather than assumed from a nearby lake name.
A Small Fish in a Small Corner of Appalachia
The upper Clinch and Holston systems hold this species within a limited part of Virginia and Tennessee. Knowing the drainage can be as important as noticing the fish’s dark appearance when distinguishing it from other sculpins.
All Lakes With Black Sculpin
Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Black Sculpin records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.