Sauger (Stizostedion canadense)

Description

The sauger belongs to the Percidae family, a large and diverse grouping of fish that include the perch and related species. These are characterized by their long, slender bodies and their two dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin has spines and the second has soft rays. The genus Stizostedion includes sauger and walleye, also referred to as pikeperch. They have only slight genetic differences and are very similar in appearance and habits. The sauger is a predator, reaching a maximum of over 3.6 kg.

The sauger is slightly smaller than the walleye, with a slender, almost cylindrical body. The head and mouth are large with jaws that have many sharp teeth. The appearance of two or three rows of black spots on the membranes of the spiny dorsal fin distinguishes the sauger from the yellow walleye. The sauger is generally brown to dark brown on the body, fading to yellow on the sides with brown patches.

Diet

A carnivorous fish, the sauger feeds on smaller fish (usually those found close to the bottom) and crustaceans. Younger fish live on aquatic insects like midgeflys and mayflies. The fish can be taken by trolling, casting or still fishing.

Reproduction

The sauger reproduces in the spring, depositing and fertilizing its eggs in shallow water throughout May and June. The eggs hatch in twelve to eighteen days.

Habitat

In Saskatchewan, sauger can be found in the Saskatchewan River, the Churchill River and in Cumberland Lake.