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Sauger
Sander canadensis
12–16 inches
Typical Length
0.5–2 lbs
Typical Weight
Mid-May (same as walleye)
Season Opens
N/A
% of MN Lakes
The sauger is the walleye's lesser-known cousin, found primarily in Minnesota's rivers and large connected lakes. Smaller than walleye but equally delicious, sauger are a valued catch along the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers.
Habitat
Sauger prefer turbid, flowing water — they're primarily a river species in Minnesota. They favor deep pools, wing dams, and tailwater areas below dams. They tolerate murkier water than walleye and are more current-oriented.
When to Fish
Best months: March, April, October, November
Season opens: Mid-May (same as walleye)
Late fall and early spring are prime sauger time, especially below dams on the Mississippi. They often school with walleye in river systems. Vertical jigging with live bait is the standard approach.
Did You Know?
- Sauger have dark spots on their dorsal fin that walleye lack — the easiest way to tell them apart.
- They can hybridize with walleye, producing 'saugeye' that are sometimes stocked in other states.
- Sauger tolerate more turbid water than walleye, which is why they're the dominant species in muddier river reaches.
Minnesota State Record
6 lbs 3 oz (Mississippi River, 2004)
Sauger (Sander canadensis) is a gamefish species found in Minnesota lakes and rivers. The Minnesota state record is 6 lbs 3 oz (Mississippi River, 2004).