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Sauger

Sauger

Sauger in Wyoming represent one of the state's most interesting but challenging fishery species. These members of the perch family are classified as S3-Vulnerable with a conservation status ranking of 2 out of 5 for sportfishing importance.

Scientific Name: Sander canadensis

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their spotted dorsal fins, brassy coloration with dark blotches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Inhabit primarily the larger turbid rivers and muddy shallows of lakes and reservoirs, preferring waters with high turbidity, low channel slope, and deep pools at least 1.5 meters deep with sand and silt substrates.

Key Locations

  • Northern Wyoming waters.

Specific Spots

  • Since sauger prefer deep, turbid waters and stick close to the bottom.
  • Target 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 Wyoming?

Heavy hair jigs (3/4 to 2 ounces) tipped with minnows to provide scent attraction in murky water. Consider adding rattles to jigs for extra attraction. Live minnows are the top bait choice, though night crawlers, shad, crayfish, leeches, and frogs can be productive depending on season.

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

Most productive during fall through early spring, avoiding the spawning period from mid-April through May. The best action typically occurs from September through March.

How do you catch Sauger in Wyoming?

Vertical jigging is the most effective technique. Vary jigging speeds and motions throughout the day. In northern Wyoming waters, trolling with Lindy rigs at 1.5 mph with line at 45-degree angles works well, allowing bait to occasionally bounce bottom.

What do Sauger eat?

Diet varies by size and season: young sauger feed on zooplankton and aquatic insects, while adults are primarily piscivorous, feeding on channel catfish, freshwater drum, mayfly larvae, and gizzard shad. Fish comprise over 99% of their autumn diet.

Where do Sauger live in Wyoming?

Inhabit primarily the larger turbid rivers and muddy shallows of lakes and reservoirs, preferring waters with high turbidity, low channel slope, and deep pools at least 1.5 meters deep with sand and silt substrates.

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