I use the bigger size hooks, I think size 2, and use larger minnows.
If I'm only catching perch less than 9 inches, I'm moving or not fishing long.

By the way, I have been told by a park ranger who was checking licenses on a river, if you throw back a fish and it dies, it counts toward your limit. I'm no lawyer but I would be carefull. Hope the seagulls will devour any evidence.

When you catch them deep and their bladder is out, can you put them in the livewell for a few minutes then let them go to survive?

best,
Rickerd