White Perch

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

White perch can be found in a variety of bodies of water throughout the Mid Atlantic region, including rivers, lakes, estuaries, and coastal bays. They are highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of salinities, making them common in both freshwater and brackish water environments.
Maryland: Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, Patuxent River, Gunpowder River, Chester River.
Virginia: Chesapeake Bay, Rappahannock River, York River, James River, Lynnhaven River.
West Virginia: Ohio River, Kanawha River, Monongahela River, Tygart Lake, Cheat Lake.
Delaware: Delaware Bay, Indian River Bay, Rehoboth Bay, Nanticoke River, Broadkill River.
North Carolina: Neuse River, Pamlico Sound, Albemarle Sound, Cape Fear River, Roanoke River.
South Carolina: Winyah Bay, Santee River, Cooper River, Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

White perch can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky shorelines, submerged structures, and areas with moderate currents. They are often associated with underwater vegetation, pilings, jetties, and rock formations. They tend to school up and can be found in large numbers.
Look for them near piers, docks, and bridges, especially around structures that provide cover and attract prey. They are known to congregate near drop-offs, channel edges, and areas with submerged objects. White perch are opportunistic feeders and will readily strike at passing prey.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring, white perch move into shallower areas for spawning. Look for them near sandy or gravelly bottoms, submerged vegetation, and areas with moderate currents. They may form large schools during this time, making it a good season for targeting them.

SUMMER

In the summer, white perch tend to move to slightly deeper waters, particularly around structures and areas with cooler temperatures. They may be found near piers, jetties, and submerged rocks. Fishing during early mornings, late evenings, or at night can be productive during this season.

FALL

As fall arrives, white perch become more active and feed aggressively to prepare for the winter. They tend to move to shallower areas again, especially near structures, tidal creeks, and areas with abundant baitfish. Use a variety of baits and techniques to entice them.

WINTER

White perch can still be caught during the winter, although they may be less active. Look for them in deeper holes, near structures, and areas with slow currents. They may gather in large schools and suspend at different depths. Adjust your bait and presentation accordingly.

White perch can be caught using a variety of baits and lures. Popular choices include bloodworms, grass shrimp, small minnows, soft plastics, and small jigs. They are known to be attracted to scent, so using bait with a strong odor can be effective. Adjust your bait size and presentation based on the size of the white perch in your fishing area.