The habitats occupied by S. lucioperca are likely to vary during different seasons, as shown by radio-tracking study done in the United States. In autumn, the adults prefer a substrate of large pebbles in 1.20-1.80 m depth. In winter, when the temperature approaches 5°C, S. lucioperca are found in pits and trenches where they overwinter. When the temperature rises above 2.8°C in spring, they commence upstream migration. Spawning takes place at a temperature of around 11°C on substrate composed of large pebbles in a current of 1.40-1.50 m/sec. After spawning, the parents drift downstream and stay in pools, 1.20-1.80 m deep, for two weeks. Mortalities affect the females after spawning. In summer, Z. lucioperca prefer a substrate of pebbles and are found at variable depths, often on the upstream edge of pits and trenches where there is a rupture of current. When the temperature reaches 30°C, they seek deep pools.