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White Perch

White Perch

White Perch are not true perch but members of the temperate bass family, closely related to striped bass.

These invasive species are highly adaptable and can thrive in both freshwater and brackish environments, making them successful invaders far from their native Atlantic coast range.

Scientific Name: Morone americana

Physical Characteristics:

Small, silvery fish averaging 8-10 inches long and weighing about 1 pound or less.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Prefer quiet pools and slower water areas of medium to large rivers, typically over mud bottoms, and are commonly found in shallow portions of lakes and ponds.

Specific Spots

Target structure like rocky shorelines, docks, piers, submerged trees, and drop-offs. In summer, focus on shaded areas under trees, boat houses, and bridges.

White Perch FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for White Perch in Colorado?

Bloodworms (especially in summer), grass shrimp (productive year-round), minnows, earthworms, night crawlers, clam snouts, and small crabs. Small spinnerbaits and crankbaits, small spoons, hair jigs, 1-2 inch swimming plugs, soft plastics like paddle tails and twisters, and 1/8-1/4 ounce shad darts tipped with bait.

What flies work for White Perch in Colorado?

Small bonefish patterns, chartreuse or white Clouser Minnows (size 6-8), small woolly buggers in chartreuse or olive, crazy charlies, mickey fins, and grey ghosts.

When is the best time to fish for White Perch in Colorado?

Spring (April-May) being prime time when they move to shallow spawning areas. Summer and fall provide excellent opportunities as fish feed aggressively after spawning and before winter. Winter fishing can be productive but requires targeting deeper water where they're less active.

How do you catch White Perch in Colorado?

Use bottom rigs or bobbers from shore, or try drifting and vertical jigging from boats. Work lures slowly near the bottom where these fish typically feed.

What do White Perch eat?

Aggressive predators with diverse diets including fish eggs (up to 100% of their diet during spawning seasons), small fish like minnows, aquatic insect larvae (chironomids, mayflies, caddisflies), zooplankton, benthic invertebrates, and crustaceans.

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Colorado licenses and regulations

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