White Perch
White Perch are native to South Carolina's Atlantic coast but have expanded their range throughout the state's inland waters. Despite their name, they're actually members of the temperate bass family, closely related to striped bass.
Scientific Name: Morone americana
- These silver-green to olive colored fish typically measure 6-9 inches and weigh less than 1 pound in South Carolina's waters, though the state record is 1-15.2 pounds from 2007.
Fishing in South Carolina
Lake Marion
Wateree River
Broad River
Saluda River
Lake Murray
Black River
Catawba River
Lynches River
Lake Moultrie
Santee River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- White Perch are native to South Carolina's Atlantic coast but have expanded their range throughout the state's inland waters.
Key Locations
- White Perch inhabit all South Carolina reservoirs except Keowee and Jocassee, and are found throughout the Pee Dee, Santee, Cooper, Broad, Saluda, and Savannah river systems, as well as inland reservoirs like Murray, Greenwood, Thurmond, and Wateree.
- In South Carolina's reservoirs like Murray, Greenwood, Thurmond, and Wateree, focus on creek mouths, shallow bays with vegetation, and areas with current flow.
Specific Spots
- Target structure like grass beds, stump beds, points, docks, piers, and rocky shorelines.
- They prefer shallow water (6-12 feet) but can be found as deep as 60 feet.
- During summer, look for them in 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 South Carolina?
The most effective artificial lures are small 1/8-pound rattle traps (panfish size), small spinnerbaits, crankbaits, spoons, hair jigs, 1-2 inch soft plastics like paddle tails and tube jigs, and shad darts tipped with bait.
When is the best time to fish for White Perch in South Carolina?
White Perch can be caught year-round in South Carolina, with spring (April-May) and fall being prime seasons. During spawning season (April-May), avoid targeting these fish to protect their reproductive cycle.
How do you catch White Perch in South Carolina?
Use bottom rigs or bobbers from shore, and drift fishing from boats. A slow, steady retrieve works best with artificials.
What do White Perch eat?
They're highly opportunistic feeders, consuming fish e.g.gs (particularly in spring), small fish, crustaceans, aquatic insects, zooplankton, and detritus.
Where do White Perch live in South Carolina?
White Perch are native to South Carolina's Atlantic coast but have expanded their range throughout the state's inland waters.
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