Round Goby
Neogobius melanostomus
Round goby is an invasive Eurasian goby now established in many North American and European waters. It lives on hard bottoms in shallow to mid-depth water, often around rocks, riprap, docks, and mussel beds, and aggressively feeds on benthic invertebrates and eggs.
Identification points
- Distinct black spot on the rear of the first dorsal fin
- Large frog-like head with eyes set high on the head
- Dark mottled body with a pale belly and fused pelvic fins forming a suction disc
Habitat
Rocky shores, riprap, breakwalls, mussel beds, docks, and other hard substrates in lakes, rivers, estuaries, and nearshore marine waters; commonly in shallow water but also deeper along bottoms.
Bait notes
Small pieces of worm, shrimp, mussel, clam, or fish flesh work well; tiny jigs tipped with bait are effective. Small soft plastics or goby-shaped lures fished on bottom can also draw strikes.
Behavior
A bottom-oriented, highly aggressive feeder that rests on the substrate and darts to seize prey. It competes strongly with native fishes, feeds heavily on zebra and quagga mussels, insect larvae, worms, and fish eggs, and can bite readily when hooked.
Caution
Sharp, spiny first dorsal fin can prick fingers; use caution unhooking. In many places it is an invasive species with transport or possession restrictions, and local rules may require disposal rather than release.
Fishing notes
Fish tight to bottom with light line and small hooks, letting baits sit near rocks and structure. Dead-stick or slow hop presentations usually outfish fast retrieves; they are often easy to catch where abundant and may be better handled quickly to avoid deep swallowing.