Walleye and Similar Species
Sander vitreus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Walleye. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Sauger
Sander canadensis
Key differences: Sauger typically have distinct dark spots on the spiny dorsal fin (Walleye have a single dark blotch at the base). Sauger lack the white tip on the lower caudal fin lobe. Sauger also tend to have more distinct dark blotches or saddles on their sides and are generally smaller than Walleye.
Yellow Perch
Perca flavescens
Key differences: Yellow Perch have a more compressed, deeper body shape, distinct vertical bars on their sides, and lack the large canine teeth and the white tip on the Walleye's caudal fin. Their eyes are not as large or reflective as Walleye eyes.
Zander
Sander lucioperca
Key differences: Zander are a European species, but have been introduced in some areas. They are very similar to Walleye but generally lack the distinct white tip on the lower caudal fin lobe and the prominent dark blotch on the spiny dorsal fin. Their body coloration can also be more silvery.
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