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Sauger

Sauger

Sauger are members of the Percidae family and Pennsylvania's most imperiled freshwater fish species.

These elongate, cylindrical fish with large canine teeth closely resemble walleye but are distinguished by distinct black spots on their dorsal fins, three to four dark saddle-shaped blotches on their olive-brown sides, and lack of white markings on their tail fin.

Scientific Name: Sander canadensis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Elongate, cylindrical fish with large canine teeth.
  • Distinguished by distinct black spots on their dorsal fins, three to four dark saddle-shaped blotches on their olive-brown sides, and lack of white markings on their tail fin.
  • Averaging 10-18 inches with occasional fish reaching 20+ inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Historically inhabited Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, St.
  • Lawrence River, and Lake Champlain watersheds but have been extirpated from most areas.
  • Primary remaining population exists in the Allegheny River below Kinzua Dam.
  • Prefer large, turbid rivers and deep pools rather than lakes.
  • Use off-channel habitats during high spring flows before returning to main channel deep pools during summer and fall.

Key Locations

  • Target the lower Allegheny River near Pittsburgh.
  • The Allegheny River below Kinzua Dam offers the best sauger fishing in Pennsylvania.
  • Upper Allegheny Reservoir (ongoing restoration through stocking programs).
  • Small remnant population may persist in Lake Champlain.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on deep holes, pools below dams, tributary mouths, and areas with current breaks.
  • Fish 8+ feet deep consistently - sauger rarely venture into shallows except during spawning.
  • Target dawn and dusk periods when sauger move from deep refugia to feed in slightly shallower transition areas.
  • Cast to eddies below wing walls and lock chambers.

Sauger FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Heavy hair jigs (3/4 to 2 ounces) tipped with live minnows, particularly fathead minnows or creek chubs. Orange and chartreuse jigheads are most productive. Live creek chubs or minnows on #4 red hook. 1-ounce Lindy Fuzz E Grubs for snag-free areas, bell or pencil sinkers up to 8 ounces in heavy structure.

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

Peak sauger fishing season runs from late fall through winter, with excellent action from October through February. Early spring (post-spawn) and fall offer the best opportunities. Avoid fishing during spawning from March-May. Summer fishing requires targeting deeper waters during low-light periods.

How do you catch Sauger in Pennsylvania?

Vertical jigging is the primary technique - hold the jig near bottom for 20-30 seconds after contact rather than constantly moving it. Three-way rigs are highly effective. Trolling using Lindy rigs with live shiners at 1.5 mph, maintaining a 45-degree line angle so bait occasionally bounces bottom.

What do Sauger eat?

As piscivorous predators, they consume channel catfish, freshwater drum, gizzard shad, shiners, and various small fish depending on season and size. Smaller sauger (200-299mm) feed on benthic invertebrates, mayfly larvae, and small catfish, while larger specimens focus almost exclusively on fish.

Where do Sauger live in Pennsylvania?

Historically inhabited Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, St. Lawrence River, and Lake Champlain watersheds but have been extirpated from most areas. Primary remaining population exists in the Allegheny River below Kinzua Dam. Prefer large, turbid rivers and deep pools rather than lakes.

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