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White Perch

White Perch

White Perch are an invasive species in Vermont, illegally introduced and now common in Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River. First observed in Lake Champlain in 1984, they've established reproducing populations despite being non-native.

These fish are actually temperate bass, more closely related to striped bass than true perch.

Scientific Name: Morone americana

Physical Characteristics:
  • In Vermont waters, they typically range 9-10 inches in Lake Champlain, though maximum size can reach 22.8 inches.
  • White perch have deep oval bodies with dark gray to olive brown upper bodies that shade to silver and white on their bellies, featuring toothless terminal mouths.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Common in Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River.
  • Highly adaptable, tolerating various habitats.

Key Locations

  • Lake Champlain, the Connecticut River, and tributary systems like the lower Lamoille River, lower Winooski River, and Shelburne Bay.

Specific Spots

  • Fish near structure like rocky shorelines, docks, piers, and areas with aquatic vegetation.
  • In summer, target shaded areas beneath trees, boat houses, and bridges.
  • During winter, focus on areas where streams enter lakes.

White Perch FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Productive baits include bloodworms (excellent for summer), grass shrimp (work anytime), earthworms, night crawlers, and small minnows.

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

Best fishing occurs from mid-May through fall, with spring and early summer being particularly productive. During winter, focus on areas where streams enter lakes, particularly during early or late ice conditions.

How do you catch White Perch in Vermont?

Can be caught year-round in Vermont, but avoid fishing during their late spring to early summer spawning period (when water temps reach 50-60°F). The best fishing occurs from mid-May through fall, with spring and early summer being particularly productive as they move into tributary rivers post-spawn.

What do White Perch eat?

Opportunistic feeders that switch food sources based on availability, consuming fish e.g.gs, small fish, zooplankton, benthic invertebrates, and aquatic insect larvae including chironomids, trichopterans, and ephemeropterans. As they grow larger, they become increasingly piscivorous.

Where do White Perch live in Vermont?

Common in Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River. Highly adaptable, tolerating various habitats.

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