Yellow Perch

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Yellow perch, renowned for their delicate flavor and widespread distribution, can be found in various bodies of water across the North/Great Lakes region of the United States. Anglers flock to these waters in pursuit of yellow perch for their delicious fillets and the enjoyable fishing experience they offer. While the following bodies of water are popular for yellow perch fishing in this region, it's important to note that there are many other locations where anglers can explore and target yellow perch:
Michigan: Lake St. Clair, Detroit River, Houghton Lake.
Minnesota: Lake Mille Lacs, Leech Lake, Lake Winnibigoshish.
North Dakota: Devils Lake, Lake Sakakawea, Jamestown Reservoir.
South Dakota: Lake Oahe, Lake Thompson, Big Stone Lake.
Wisconsin: Lake Winnebago, Green Bay, Lake Geneva.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Yellow perch inhabit a variety of freshwater environments, including lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and ponds. They are often found near structures such as weed beds, submerged vegetation, fallen trees, docks, and rocky areas. Look for yellow perch in areas with moderate depths and a mixture of sand, gravel, or mud bottoms. They are commonly found in schools, so targeting areas with baitfish presence can increase your chances of success.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, yellow perch move closer to shorelines and shallower waters for spawning. Look for them near weed beds, submerged structures, or areas with rocky bottoms. Use small jigs tipped with live bait such as minnows, worms, or maggots. Slowly retrieve your bait near the bottom to entice yellow perch to bite.

SUMMER

In the summer, yellow perch can be found in slightly deeper waters, often near drop-offs, weed edges, or areas with submerged structures. Use small jigs, spinners, or spoons in combination with live bait or soft plastics. Experiment with different colors and sizes to find the combination that attracts the most yellow perch.

FALL

As fall approaches, yellow perch tend to gather in larger schools and move closer to shorelines. Look for them near weed beds, rocky points, or areas with access to deeper water. Use small jigs, spinnerbaits, or live bait rigs to target yellow perch. Vary your presentation speed and depth to find the most effective approach.

WINTER

During the winter months, ice fishing is a popular method for targeting yellow perch. Look for them in shallower areas with submerged structures, weed beds, or drop-offs. Use small ice jigs, spoons, or live bait such as minnows or waxworms. Set up multiple holes and experiment with different depths until you locate active schools of yellow perch.

Yellow perch are known to feed on a variety of baits and lures. Effective bait options for yellow perch fishing include live minnows, worms, maggots, small jigs, spinners, and soft plastics. Consider using a two-hook setup to increase your chances of hooking multiple perch at once. Adjust your bait presentation based on the depth and behavior of the yellow perch.