The theoretical analysis and experimental results of real time edge enhanced optical correlation pattern recognition via a Ce∶KNSBN photorefractive crystal in the coherent matched filter system are given. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the auto correlation peak is decreased 75%. The intensity ratio of the auto correlation peak and the cross correlation peak increases nearly one time by the edge enhancement operation. The lobe and intensity of the auto correlation peak are obviously depressed. The enhancements of signal to noise ratio and discrimination capability of the system are achieved obviously.