Yellow Perch

Description
Yellow perch are a greenish-yellow color down the back, with darker colored bands on their sides. The fins of this cool water species are typically orange. The first dorsal fin is spiny, and there is a very sharp edge on the gill covering. Yellow perch are small fish, averaging around seven to nine inches, but their size varies from lake to lake. "Big" perch are 12 inches long. Some lakes are known as producers of "jumbo" perch that are consistently large. Cascade Reservoir and Hayden Lake boast good perch fishing.

Perch flesh is tasty and is the preferred eating fish for many people in Idaho.

Yellow perch have been introduced to Idaho. They are found almost exclusively in lakes and reservoirs. They are rarely found in flowing water.

Life History
Spawning occurs in late April or early May. Perch prefer shallow lake areas close to reeds, cattails or fallen trees. Eggs are released during the night or early morning, and each female's eggs are fertilized by many males. Eggs are deposited in long bands of jelly-like material containing numerous eggs. These bands adhere to submerged vegetation or other underwater material, and remain there until the eggs hatch.

After hatching the young fish travel together in schools. They grow slowly in Idaho, unless they live in a warm productive reservoir. They are active all winter.

Feeding Habits
They feed on zooplankton and aquatic insects. As they get larger they may feed on other fish. They usually feed during the day. Because they are actively feeding all winter, they are great to fish for through the ice.

Angling Techniques
Many angling methods can be used to catch perch. Natural bait (worms, maggots, or eggs) often works well. Keep your hook on or near the bottom, suspended under a float. Cut bait is also used extensively. Jigging is also effective.

When ice fishing, natural bait on a bare hook has proven effective. Perch tend to be in fairly deep water (up to 40 feet) in the winter. Although perch are not known for their fighting ability, their large population and readiness to bite make them especially popular with most anglers.