SAUGER

The Sauger is a slim, aggressive freshwater predator native to rivers and large lakes across central and eastern North America. It’s closely related to the Walleye but can be distinguished by its dark, spotted dorsal fin and rougher scale texture. Saugers are built for murky waters, where their sharp vision and quick strikes make them deadly hunters of minnows, small fish, and invertebrates.

Often considered the river cousin of the Walleye, Saugers are a bit smaller and tend to prefer faster, muddier water. While not as widely known as Walleyes, they’re highly respected by serious anglers for their fighting spirit and excellent table quality.

Record Size: 8lbs

Where to Find Them: Fast-flowing rivers, deep pools, turbid lakes

Grilled Fish with Lemon Butter Sauce - Mr. Cook 

1. Saugers migrate long distances upstream during spring to spawn.
   
   

2. They have special tapetum lucidum layers in their eyes, letting them see better in low light.
   
   

3. They're disappearing in some areas due to habitat changes and competition with Walleyes.