Sauger

Heavy jigs (3/4 to 2 ounces) in chartreuse or bright colors, often tipped with minnows for scent attraction in murky water. Use 1/16 ounce crappie jigs with tiny fluke baits in baitfish colors for finesse presentations, cutting the collar off jig heads to prevent plastic distortion.

The best sauger fishing in North Dakota occurs during spring and fall when they're most active, with prime seasons from March through May and September through fall. Sauger spawn in mid- to late May over clean gravel river bottoms, and this period should be avoided for fishing to protect spawning populations.

Vertical jigging is the most effective technique. Work jigs slowly near bottom structure, lifting 4-6 inches off bottom and holding still for 20-30 seconds. Trolling Lindy rigs with shiners at 1.5 mph with 45-degree line angles works well.

Sauger are opportunistic predators that feed on channel catfish, freshwater drum, benthic invertebrates, mayfly larvae, shiners, and gizzard shad depending on their size and season. Fish account for over 99% of their autumn diet.

They prefer fairly fast-moving water of rivers and streams, particularly the turbid waters of the Yellowstone River and other river systems. Typically preferring areas with high turbidity, low channel slope, deep water over 1.5 meters, and sand/silt substrates that provide current breaks.