Fish Profile - Sauger

Like their cousins the walleye, they prefer the deeper waters of lakes, reservoirs, and large rivers.  Sauger are often mistaken for walleye. Both have large canine teeth and the same general body shape; however, saugers lack the dark spot found on the bottom of the walleye's first dorsal fin. In addition, sauger have three to four saddle shaped blotches on their sides. While sauger do not grow as large as walleye, they occasionally reach 18 inches in length.

Spawning takes place from May to June. Like walleye, sauger randomly release their eggs over rocky bottom. The eggs hatch between the rocky crevices.

Sauger are a popular sportfish. They are good fighters and are excellent to eat.

Species Facts

Science Name: Stizostedion canadense Other Names: Sand pike, river pike, gray pike, gray pickerel, spotfin pike

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