Yellow Perch

Habitat

Perch are schooling fish found near structure on the bottom—weed beds, submerged timber, rock piles, and drop-offs. They feed on insects, minnows, and crayfish. When you find one, there are usually more.

Seasonal Patterns

Spring: Shallow bays warming up from ice-out. Summer: Weed edges and structure in 10-25 feet. Fall: Schooling over deep flats. Winter: One of the best ice fishing targets, often in 15-30 feet.

Fishing Techniques

• Vertical jigging: Small jigs tipped with bait, worked near bottom
• Float fishing: Bobber rig with small jig or hook 1-2 feet off bottom
• Drop-shot: Hook suspended 16-24 inches above sinker
• Casting small spinners and crankbaits in open water

Best Lures

• Small jigs (1/16-1/8 oz) in chartreuse, orange, or natural colors
• Tungsten ice jigs for sensitivity
• Small spoons for jigging
• Lipless crankbaits (Slab Rap, Rippin' Rap)
• Soft plastic grubs and curly tails

Best Bait

• Mealworms and maggots
• Small minnows (fathead)
• Cut nightcrawlers
• Small leeches

Alberta Regulations

Generally no limit on perch in most Alberta waters. Check specific waterbodies as some may have restrictions. Great species for young anglers due to cooperative nature.

Identification

Distinctive vertical black bars on yellow-green sides. Small compared to walleye. Two dorsal fins, the front with spines.

Pro Tips

• When you catch one, stay put—perch school together
• Use small hooks (#6-#10) and light line (4-6 lb)
• Lift and drop jigs to create small silt clouds that attract perch
• Flashers and underwater cameras help locate schools in winter
• Fresh bait outperforms old bait significantly

Size Information

Average Size: 0.2-0.4 kg (8-14 oz), with fish over 0.5 kg (1 lb) considered jumbos