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Yellow Perch

Yellow Perch

Yellow perch in Tennessee are non-native fish that have established populations primarily in certain reservoirs and lakes, particularly in the southeastern and eastern regions of the state.

Scientific Name: Perca flavescens

Physical Characteristics:
  • These cool-water fish are characterized by their distinctive yellow-gold coloration with 6-8 dark vertical bars along their sides, two separate dorsal fins, and typically reach 4-12 inches in length.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • These cool-water fish have established populations primarily in certain reservoirs and lakes, particularly in the southeastern and eastern regions of the state.

Key Locations

  • In Tennessee, yellow perch are most notably found in Parksville Reservoir in the Ocoee River watershed (Polk County) and Chilhowee Reservoir on the Little Tennessee River (Blount and Monroe Counties).

Specific Spots

  • In Tennessee reservoirs like Parksville and Chilhowee, target yellow perch around weed lines, gravel areas, and rocky shorelines in 15-30 feet of water during warmer months, moving to shallower areas of 4-9 feet during cooler periods.
  • They inhabit areas around vegetation, rocky points, and structures in depths ranging from shallow shorelines to 15-30 feet during warmer months, moving shallower in winter and early spring.

Yellow Perch FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Live bait is highly effective, particularly small minnows, wax worms, leeches, and pieces of nightcrawler fished on small hooks (#6-8) with light split shot. For artificials, small jigs (1/32-1/8 oz) tipped with soft plastics like 1-2 inch grubs, curly tail grubs, or small swimbaits work well.

What flies work for Yellow Perch in Tennessee?

Mini Clouser minnows in chartreuse/red, yellow/red, or black/red color combinations are effective fly patterns.

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

The most productive seasons for yellow perch fishing in Tennessee are fall through early spring, with winter and early spring being particularly effective when fish are in shallower water. In winter, focus on deeper rocky banks (10-15 feet).

How do you catch Yellow Perch in Tennessee?

Live bait fished on small hooks (#6-8) with light split shot, either under a slip bobber or near bottom. Fish split shot rigs with worms along the bottom in winter.

What do Yellow Perch eat?

Yellow perch in Tennessee waters feed primarily on zooplankton when young, progressing to small insects, crayfish, freshwater shrimp, and small fish as adults.

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