Bait Rigs Tackle Perch Fishing Kits

Perch Fishing Lures: Yellow perch are primarily bottom feeders with a slow deliberate bite. They eat almost anything, but prefer minnows, insect larvae, plankton, and worms. Tackle may range from a simple handline or a fly rod in summer to a short, whippy, jigging rod in winter. Small jigs or spoons tipped with worms, spikes or minnows are most popular perch fishing lures. Because perch prefer cooler water, the best fishing is usually in deep water. Perch move about in schools, often numbering in the hundreds. If one spot is unproductive after a few tries, it is best to move to other spots until a school is located.

Habitat: Yellow perch are native to southern Canada and the northeastern and upper midwestern United States.

Biology: Though capable of adapting to a variety of habitats and water temperatures, yellow perch school near shore, usually at depths less than 30 feet. They feed in the morning and evening, rest on the bottom at night and continue feeding year-round -- to the gratification of ice fishermen.

Perch are not scrappy adversaries like trout, but these full-bodied, large-finned panfish are a favorite and relatively easy target for breakwater anglers. Perch are especially esteemed for their "inner qualities" -- a flesh that is white, flakey and delicious.