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Creek chub illustration

Creek Chub

Minnow Family: This family comprises the largest number of fish in North Dakota, with about 30 species of minnows found statewide. These minnows all have a single dorsal fin. They can be an important source of food for other fish as well as birds and mammals, and in many streams they are a good indicator of water quality and ecosystem health.


Creek Chub Identification

  • Dark spot at the base of the dorsal fin and another at the base of the tail
  • Dark lateral stripe from their head to tail is usually quite evident in younger creek chubs, but can fade as the fish age

Notes

This chub may grow to 12 inches and is found mainly in rivers and large streams with relatively clear water and sand or gravel substrate.

Some people like to fish for them and others use them as baitfish.