White Perch

For bait: bloodworms (excellent scent producers), grass shrimp, nightcrawlers, small minnows, or cut bait. Avoid oversized baits as these fish have relatively small mouths.

The best fishing occurs from late fall through winter (November being particularly productive) and again in late spring after spawning concludes. During spawning season (avoid fishing during this critical reproductive period).

Bottom rigs or under bobbers for bait fishing. Vary retrieval speeds and depths until schools are located. During high tide, work shallow bulkheads and grass-lined areas; during low tide, focus on drop-off edges.

Generalist feeders with an opportunistic diet including fish, crustaceans, worms, plant matter, insects, aquatic invertebrates, and zooplankton. Juveniles primarily consume zooplankton and benthic invertebrates, while adults become increasingly piscivorous.

Upper Potomac drainage. Fresh, brackish, and coastal waters including pools and quiet areas of medium to large rivers, usually over mud.