It is typically found in areas with moderate to swift currents and a water depth of over 2 ft (60 cm), in the main channels of free-flowing rivers with a rock, cobble or boulder base and aquatic plants.

The fish is between 1.6 and 2.9 inches (41 and 74 mm) long with brownish red and amber dorsolateral stripes.

This species prefers to live in areas with moderate to swift current and a water depth of over 2 feet (0.61 m) in the main channels of free-flowing rivers.

These areas where it is most common have a bottom of bedrock, cobble, or small boulders and contain patches of water willow or other river weed.

Attempts to raise the population of the goldline darter will focus on habitat preservation and water quality improvement.