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Yellow Perch

Yellow Perch

Yellow Perch are non-native fish in Colorado that were introduced in the late 1800s and early 1900s by the U. S. Fish Commission. These fish are now established in 31 hydrologic units across Colorado, from the Colorado Headwaters to the South Platte basin.

These fish serve as important forage for bass, walleye, and other predators while providing excellent table fare for anglers.

Scientific Name: Perca flavescens

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinctive golden-yellow fish with 6-8 dark vertical bars.
  • They typically reach 6-7 inches in length, with 12-inch fish considered trophies.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Established in 31 hydrologic units across Colorado, from the Colorado Headwaters to the South Platte basin.
  • They prefer clear water near vegetation in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving river sections.

Key Locations

  • Boyd Lake, Blue Mesa Reservoir, and various Front Range waters.

Specific Spots

  • Target them at depths of 5-15 feet around vegetation and structure.
  • They spawn in shallow areas with vegetation.

Yellow Perch FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

1/32 oz jig heads tipped with 1-inch Berkeley Power Tubes, grubs, or Fin Candy soft plastics in olive, peacock, fire tiger, and white flash patterns. Small spinners like Mepps Aglia #1, micro crankbaits such as Rebel Hellgrammite, and small spoons.

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

Most productive from late spring through fall, with peak action from May through October. Ice fishing is excellent in winter. They spawn in April-May when water temperatures reach 45-58°F.

How do you catch Yellow Perch in Colorado?

The most effective technique is fishing 1/32 oz jig heads tipped with small plastics. Tandem rigs with jigs tied 12-18 inches apart can double your catch rate. For bait fishing, use live bait under slip bobbers. Fish just off the bottom rather than directly on it - keep lures 6-18 inches above vegetation or structure.

What do Yellow Perch eat?

Their diet consists of invertebrates, insects, small minnows, crayfish, and aquatic insects - they feed during daylight hours and become less active at night.

Where do Yellow Perch live in Colorado?

Established in 31 hydrologic units across Colorado, from the Colorado Headwaters to the South Platte basin. They prefer clear water near vegetation in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving river sections.

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