Yellow Perch

Perca flavescens

A beloved panfish across Michigan, yellow perch are abundant in the Great Lakes and inland waters and are famous for their sweet, flaky fillets. Saginaw Bay and Lake Erie historically produced the state's top perch fisheries.

Seasonal Activity

Jan

Prime

Feb

Prime

Mar

Good

Apr

Good

May

Good

Jun

Good

Jul

Good

Aug

Good

Sep

Good

Oct

Prime

Nov

Good

Dec

Prime

Best Techniques

still-fishing with minnows
ice fishing with teardrops
drop-shotting
slip-bobber rigs

Top Baits

minnows
wax worms
spikes
small jigs
perch rigs

Michigan state record: 3.75 lbs, Lake Independence (Marquette Co.), 1947