The sauger inhabits various rivers and lakes across North America. It belongs to the perch family, Percidae. Observing its physical characteristics helps in identification.
General Physical Characteristics
Sauger possess an elongated and cylindrical body shape. Their overall coloration generally ranges from brownish-gold or olive to a brassy hue, often with a paler belly.
Sauger scales are ctenoid, feeling rough to the touch. Adult sauger typically measure between 12 to 18 inches in length, with an average weight of about 1 pound. They can occasionally reach larger sizes.
Unique Markings and Fin Features
A distinguishing feature of the sauger is the presence of dark, oblong blotches or saddle-like markings along its sides and back. These patterns provide camouflage within their preferred turbid waters. The spiny dorsal fin of a sauger is particularly notable, displaying distinct rows of dark spots across its membranes.
The sauger has a large mouth equipped with sharp teeth, reflecting its predatory nature. Its snout is generally pointed, and the upper jaw extends back to about the hind edge of the eye. Some sauger also exhibit a distinct dark blotch located at the base of their pectoral fins.
Distinguishing Sauger from Similar Fish
Identifying a sauger and differentiating it from a walleye, a close relative, involves observing several specific visual cues. The most reliable distinction lies in their dorsal fins. Sauger consistently display distinct rows of dark spots on their spiny dorsal fin, whereas walleye typically have a more uniform dorsal fin with a prominent black blotch at the posterior base, lacking scattered spots.
Further differences are apparent in their body markings and fin characteristics. Sauger exhibit distinct dark blotches or saddle-like patterns along their sides, providing a mottled appearance. Walleye, conversely, tend to have a more uniform or subtly mottled coloration, with any saddle markings often not extending below their lateral line. Additionally, sauger generally lack the prominent white tip on the lower lobe of their caudal (tail) fin, a characteristic often seen on walleye.
Another differentiating factor is the texture of their cheeks. Sauger have fully scaled cheeks, which makes them feel rough when touched. In contrast, walleye usually have partially scaled or scaleless cheeks that feel smoother. While sauger are generally smaller, typically averaging 10 to 16 inches, walleye often grow larger, with average lengths between 14 and 23 inches.