Perch Family: Walleye, sauger and yellow perch are popular game fish in this family. Darters, which seldom exceed 4 inches, also belong to the perch family.
Identification: Two completely separated dorsal fins The first fin is spiny (2 spines), while the second fin has soft rays (11-14 soft rays) A native fish that resemble walleye but are usually thinner in build Blotched body color and rows of dark spots on the dorsal fin (compared to the one black blotch of the walleye)
Notes: Sauger typically inhabit turbid and fairly fast-moving water of rivers, such as the Yellowstone River, and streams. The saugeye is a cross between a walleye and sauger but cannot be positively identified by external physical characteristics.
Habitat & Range
Sauger typically inhabit turbid and fairly fast-moving water of rivers, such as the Yellowstone River, and streams. The saugeye is a cross between a walleye and sauger but cannot be positively identified by external physical characteristics.
Fishing Season
Open year-round (April 1 – March 31)
License & Regulations
A valid North Dakota fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Resident and non-resident licenses are available. Two free fishing days per year (typically in June and December) allow fishing without a license. Purchase licenses online through the North Dakota Game and Fish Department website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations
Walleye, Sauger, and Saugeye: 5 daily creel (14-inch minimum on select waters), 10 possession.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | Fishing | Regulations | Season Dates | Open year-round (April 1 – March 31) | Link |
| North Dakota | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid North Dakota fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older. Resident and non-resident licenses are availa | Link |
