Identification
Six to nine dark blotches run along the sides beneath an olive-toned back. Saddles and fine dark markings add to its mottled appearance. Breeding males become darker, making the side pattern especially conspicuous.
Size and Weight
The reported maximum total length is 11.4 cm, about 4.5 inches. The published maximum weight is 14.7 g, approximately 0.52 ounces. Adult sizes vary among accounts and populations; a smaller regional adult range does not replace these separate maximum values.
Habitat and Natural Food
Gravel, sand and cobble occur within its stream habitat. Wood, vegetation and undercut banks can provide cover. Its diverse prey includes midge, blackfly, mayfly and caddisfly larvae along with small crustaceans. It can also use water above the bottom more than many other darters.
Spawning and Fishing Context
Females place eggs in sand or gravel during spring, with timing differing between northern and southern populations. No verified best-bait or lure recommendation is established here. The natural prey list explains the food web rather than demonstrating a recreational fishing technique.
A Darter That Ventures Above the Bottom
Although closely associated with stream habitat, Blackside Darter is not confined to resting on the bed. Its use of mid-depth water adds another dimension to the pools and covered reaches where it occurs.
All Lakes With Blackside Darter
Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Blackside Darter records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.
Showing 1–24 of 37 lakes · Page 1 of 2
- Ball Bluff Lake Aitkin, MN
- Barrett Lake Grant, MN
- Bass Lake Livingston, MI
- Big Pine Lake Otter Tail, MN
- Big Stone Lake Big Stone, MN
- Caddo Lake Caddo, LA
- Cedar Lake Martin, MN
- Clearwater Lake Beltrami, MN
- Cokato Lake Wright, MN
- Crooked Lake Montmorency, MI
- Deepwater Lake St. Louis, MN
- East Lost Lake Otter Tail, MN
- Houghton Lake Roscommon, MI
- Indian Lake Schoolcraft, MI
- Lake Adrian Lenawee, MI
- Lake Emily Pope, MN
- Lake Michigan Mason, IL
- Lake Michigan Lake, IN
- Lake of the Woods Lake of the Woods, MN
- Lake Saint Clair Wayne, MI
- Little Pine Lake Otter Tail, MN
- Little Pine Lake Otter Tail, MN
- Long Lake Alpena, MI
- Long Lake Cass, MI