Yellow Perch
Yellow Perch in Georgia are considered an introduced species, with populations established through stocking programs and natural dispersal. Trophy-sized perch are often a byproduct of Georgia's walleye stocking program in these cooler northern waters.
Yellow Perch are an important forage species for larger predators like walleye and largemouth bass.
Scientific Name: Perca flavescens
- These fish are characterized by their golden-yellow bodies with 6-8 distinctive dark vertical bars, bright orange fins, and typically range from 4-12 inches, though Georgia's state record is an impressive 2 pounds, 9 ounces caught on Lake Burton in 2024.
Fishing in Georgia
Ocmulgee River
Lake Sinclair
Flint River
Oconee River
Lake Tobesofkee
Lake Wildwood
Houston Lake
Housers Millpond
Rocky Creek
High Falls Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Yellow Perch are primarily found in the northern mountain lakes and rivers in Georgia, particularly in cooler northern waters.
Key Locations
- In Georgia, Yellow Perch are primarily found in the northern mountain lakes and rivers, particularly in the Tallulah River system including Lakes Burton, Seed, and Rabun, as well as the Chattahoochee River basin.
- In Georgia's mountain lakes, focus on Lake Burton, Lake Rabun, Lake Seed, and areas of the Chattahoochee River system.
Specific Spots
- Commonly found around vegetation, rocky areas, and structure.
- Target depths of 4-9 feet around hard bottom areas with scattered vegetation during warmer periods, and deeper waters of 28-35 feet when temperatures are in the mid-30s.
Yellow Perch FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Yellow Perch in Georgia?
Effective lures include 1/32-ounce jigheads tipped with small plastics like 2-inch tube jigs, split-tail grubs, or curly tail grubs in natural colors. Small spoons, in-line spinners (particularly Rooster Tails), and micro crankbaits work well when perch are in shallow water.
When is the best time to fish for Yellow Perch in Georgia?
Spring (late March through early May before spawning begins) and fall (late September through November). Spawning occurs in early spring when water temperatures reach 45-65°F (typically late March through early May in Georgia), during which time they should not be targeted.
How do you catch Yellow Perch in Georgia?
A productive setup is the float-and-fly rig using small jigs under a weighted bobber. A tandem rig with jigs tied 12-18 inches apart can increase catch rates. Present baits near the bottom, staying within 6-12 inches of structure or vegetation.
What do Yellow Perch eat?
Their diet varies by age - young perch feed primarily on zooplankton, while adults consume aquatic insects, small invertebrates, crayfish, and small fish.
Where do Yellow Perch live in Georgia?
Yellow Perch are primarily found in the northern mountain lakes and rivers in Georgia, particularly in cooler northern waters.
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