Yellow Perch

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Yellow Perch can be found in the Mid Atlantic region in a variety of bodies of water, including rivers, lakes, and ponds. They are known to inhabit both freshwater and brackish water environments.
Maryland: Chesapeake Bay, Potomac River, Gunpowder River, Deep Creek Lake.
Virginia: Chesapeake Bay, James River, Rappahannock River, Smith Mountain Lake.
West Virginia: Ohio River, Tygart Lake, Summersville Lake.
Delaware: Delaware Bay, Nanticoke River, Lums Pond.
North Carolina: Neuse River, Roanoke River, Falls Lake.
South Carolina: Lake Murray, Lake Marion, Santee River.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Yellow Perch are commonly found in areas with structure and cover such as submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and rocky bottoms. They prefer water with moderate vegetation and tend to concentrate near structures that provide shelter and ambush points.
Look for them in areas with slow to moderate currents, particularly around points, drop-offs, and submerged ledges. They can also be found near bridges, docks, and other man-made structures.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring, Yellow Perch move into shallower areas for spawning. Look for them in the shallows near vegetation, particularly in the warmer backwaters of rivers and creeks. They can be quite active during this time and readily take various baits and lures.

SUMMER

In the summer, Yellow Perch tend to move to slightly deeper waters, particularly around submerged structures and drop-offs. They may also congregate near areas with cooler water temperatures, such as inflows or deeper sections of lakes and reservoirs. Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening can be productive during this season.

FALL

As fall arrives, Yellow Perch become more active and feed aggressively in preparation for the upcoming winter. They may move to shallower areas again, especially near submerged vegetation and fallen trees. Look for them in creek mouths and near rocky points. Use small jigs, spinners, or live bait to entice them.

WINTER

Yellow Perch can be caught throughout the winter, even under the ice in some areas. Look for them in deeper holes, near structure, or close to the bottom. Slow presentations with small jigs or live bait are often effective during the colder months.

Yellow Perch can be caught using a variety of baits, including live minnows, worms, small jigs, and spinners. Adjust your bait selection based on the season and the preferences of the fish.