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Yellow Perch

Perca flavescens

A schooling, striped panfish — great fun on light tackle.

Yellow Perch
Illustration: Duane Raver / USFWS (public domain)
01 · At a glance

Typical Size & Weight

Length
6–8 in
Weight
¼–1 lb

Source

Active Seasons

Spawns in spring. In northern states, perch are a favorite of ice anglers. MDC MN DNR

02

Habitat & Distribution

Water types

  • Lakes (mainly a lake fish) Source
  • Backwaters of large rivers Source
  • Pools and runs of small streams Source

Structure & cover

  • Docks, scattered weeds, lily pads and rocky points Source

Travels in large schools: deep water by day, moving inshore to feed in late afternoon or evening. Source

Basic info

  • 6–8 regularly spaced dark bars over a golden-yellow to brassy-green side. Source
  • More common in northern states and Canada; rare in Missouri. Source
03

Feeding Habits

  • Eats mainly small crustaceans, insects and fish. Source
04

Recommended Tactics & Lures

  • Light rod with 4–6 lb line; small jigs, spinner rigs or a curly-tail grub. Source
  • Live bait: night crawlers, red worms, crayfish, shiners or fathead minnows; a worm under a bobber works well. Source

Seasons and rules vary by state. Always check your state's current fishing regulations on our Fishing by State page. Last checked: Oct 30, 2026.

🏆 Trophy fact: The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service lists the longest reported yellow perch at 19.7 inches. Source