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Sauger

Sauger

Sauger are native freshwater percid fish found in Indiana's river systems and reservoirs. They're smaller relatives of walleye and are highly migratory fish that prefer deeper, turbid river waters with moderate currents.

Scientific Name: Sander canadensis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their brassy to dark brown coloration with distinctive dark blotches or saddles on their sides, black spots on their dorsal fins, and rough scales over their gills.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Typically inhabiting large rivers with deep pools greater than 0.6 meters deep.
  • They're commonly found in areas with high turbidity, low channel slope, sand and silt substrates, and habitat features that provide cover from current.

Key Locations

  • Primarily found in the Ohio River system in Indiana, particularly the state's portion of the Ohio River which provides abundant angling opportunities.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas with structure like ledges, shelves, drop-offs, humps, and current breaks caused by rocks or opposing currents.

Sauger FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Heavy hair jigs (¾ to 1 ounce, or up to 2 ounces) tipped with minnows for scent in the murky waters they prefer. Leadhead jigs with white or chartreuse soft plastics are particularly popular. Consider adding rattles to jigs for attention.

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

The prime season for Indiana sauger fishing is during their spring spawning migration in March and April. Anglers should avoid targeting them during spawning from March to May when water temperatures reach appropriate levels.

How do you catch Sauger in Indiana?

Vertical jigging is the most effective technique since sauger almost always stick to the bottom. Vary jigging speeds and motions as sauger preferences can change daily.

What do Sauger eat?

They feed on a variety of prey depending on size and season: smaller sauger (200-299mm) consume benthic invertebrates, mayfly larvae, and small catfish during spring and summer, while larger specimens (300-379mm and above) primarily feed on channel catfish and freshwater drum during spring.

Where do Sauger live in Indiana?

Typically inhabiting large rivers with deep pools greater than 0.6 meters deep. They're commonly found in areas with high turbidity, low channel slope, sand and silt substrates, and habitat features that provide cover from current.

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