Need Perch Tips

[sloch24]

I've been fishing for Perch (mostly) for about 15 years. I'll give you MY experience and technique, but others have their own opinions.

As for location, pick a spot. Find the fish, you'll catch them. If you're unsure, look for the pack of boats. I generally do better staying away from the pack, or on the outside of the pack (and you don't get dirty looks trying to sidle up to another boat).

For Perch fishing, I almost ALWAYS anchor off the stern. That's dangerous information, because you have to understand your boat, the height of the transom, and the weather conditions. If it's rough AT ALL, or if the waves start picking up, tie off of your bow so you don't sink your boat. The reason for tying off on the stern is to stabilize your boat. Perch fishing seems to work best when you're anchored and not swinging back and forth on your rode.

As for tackle, I use a 3 hook "crappie" rig with Tru-Turn hooks. My wife swears by spreaders with flicker hooks (I usually outfish her). Some days you have to jig to get their attention. Most of the time, I just lower my rig to the bottom, raise it just off the bottom, and gently raise it up and down (my lowest minnow is level with or lower than the sinker). 9 out of 10 fish are caught on the bottom hook. (Jann's Netcraft in Maumee will give you a printout of how to tie (or crimp) the rig that I use).

That's about it. It doesn't get much simpler than perch fishing. Ask the bait shop where they're catching, head out there, anchor, and fill your cooler. I've limited out (2 tickets) in under an hour on a good fall day. (Of course there are the days where I don't... )


I've never used attractants. I have turned the blower on, We crank up the radio at times, I've tried the "fish callers" made from a piece of pipe with a ball bearing inside (jury is still out on that one)


Good luck!