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Sauger

Sauger

Sauger in Colorado are not native to the state and have a very limited presence compared to their natural range in the Midwest and Great Lakes regions. These fish are members of the perch family (Percidae).

Their limited population and distribution in Colorado makes them an uncommon catch, with most anglers more likely to encounter walleye or saugeye in the state's waters.

Physical Characteristics:
  • They are characterized by their slender, dark-yellow to brown bodies with large, dark saddles on their sides and white undersides.
  • They have two separate dorsal fins, with the first having 12 spines and distinctive black spots - a key identifying feature that distinguishes them from walleye.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • According to U.S.GS data, sauger have been documented in Colorado in only three watersheds: Cache La Poudre, Huerfano, and Upper Arkansas, with observations recorded between 1993-2009.
  • Sauger prefer deeper, turbid river waters with moderate currents.

Key Locations

  • Cache La Poudre River system, Huerfano River, and Upper Arkansas River areas.
  • Most Colorado fishing efforts would be better directed toward walleye and saugeye populations in waters like Boyd Lake, Horsetooth Reservoir, and other Front Range impoundments.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on pools, runs, and areas with moderate flow rather than shallow riffles.

Sauger FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Sauger in Colorado?

Heavy jigs (3/4 to 1 ounce) tipped with minnows. Hair jigs in bright colors like glow blue, pink, and white. Small spinners, spoons, and crankbaits that mimic baitfish. Live bait including minnows, nightcrawlers, and leeches presented on jig heads or bottom-bouncing rigs.

When is the best time to fish for Sauger in Colorado?

In their native range, sauger spawn in spring (March-May) when water temperatures reach 5-10°C - during this period they should not be targeted.

How do you catch Sauger in Colorado?

Vertical jigging would be the most effective technique, as sauger are bottom-oriented fish. Bottom-bouncing rigs could also work when presenting live bait.

What do Sauger eat?

They are primarily piscivorous as adults, feeding on various fish species, but also consume insects, crayfish, and zooplankton at different life stages.

Where do Sauger live in Colorado?

According to U.S.GS data, sauger have been documented in Colorado in only three watersheds: Cache La Poudre, Huerfano, and Upper Arkansas, with observations recorded between 1993-2009. Sauger prefer deeper, turbid river waters with moderate currents.

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