Perch fishing has been a passion of mine for years, and through countless hours spent on the water, I’ve gained valuable insights and techniques that have consistently helped me catch big perch. In this post, I want to share my personal experiences and tenacity that have proven fruitful in the pursuit of perch. From selecting the perfect fishing spots to mastering the art of finesse, here’s what I’ve learned about what it takes to catch bigger perch.
Top 10 Perch Tips
Location is key: Perch love to hang out around structures like fallen trees, weed beds, and rocky areas. Look for these spots in your fishing area, as they often attract perch in search of food and shelter. Keep moving around to find the fish, if they are there they will take the bait quickly.
Time it right: Perch are most active during the early morning and late evening hours. Plan your fishing trips accordingly to maximize your chances of success. An hour in the evening can be as productive as 3 hours over lunchtime.
Light tackle works wonders: Finesse is key when jig fishing. Opt for a light or ultralight spinning rod and reel combo, paired with a 4-8-pound test line.
Live bait is the go-to: Perch are notorious for their preference for live bait. Minnows, worms, and small crayfish make excellent choices. Rig them on a small hook with a split shot sinker to keep the bait near the bottom. (where live baiting is allowed)
Jig it up: When the perch aren’t biting on live bait, try using small jigs. Experiment with different colours and sizes until you find the right combination that triggers their interest. A slow, jigging motion often works best. If you’re really struggling size everything down to a micro jig bait and hook.
Keep moving: Perch are known to school up, so if you’re not getting bites in one spot, don’t be afraid to move around. Cover different areas and depths until you find active schools. Hitting the right spot can produce good numbers of perch vert quickly.
Be patient and observant: Perch can be finicky biters, so it’s important to be patient. Pay attention to any signs of activity, like baitfish jumping or birds diving, as they can indicate a perch feeding frenzy.
Master the art of finesse: When you feel a bite, don’t immediately jerk the rod. Perch have delicate mouths, so a gentle, steady lift of the rod is usually enough to set the hook. It is all about how the rod feels.
Stay stealthy: Perch can be easily spooked, so avoid making excessive noise or casting a shadow over the water. Wear clothing that blends with your surroundings and approach your fishing spot quietly. I like to creep around as far back from the bank as I can. Crouching to fish can help as well, especially when the water is clear or you are fishing close in.
Pike fishing bonus tip: If you’re interested in pike fishing, I also have some valuable tips. Pike are aggressive predators that often inhabit the same areas as perch. To learn more about pike fishing tips and techniques, check out my detailed blog post here: Pike fishing tips.
Best Bait For Perch Fishing
Live minnows: Perch have a natural affinity for small minnows, making them an excellent live bait choice.
Nightcrawlers: These juicy worms are highly effective in attracting perch and triggering their feeding instincts.
Maggots: The wriggling motion of maggots can entice even the most reluctant perch to strike.
Waxworms: These soft-bodied larvae are a favourite among perch and are readily available at bait shops.
Small crayfish: If crayfish are present in your fishing area, using small ones as bait can yield impressive results.
Grasshoppers: During the summer months, when grasshoppers are abundant, they can make for fantastic perch bait.
Artificial grubs: Soft plastic grubs in natural colours, like chartreuse or white, can mimic the movement of live bait and attract perch.
Crickets: Similar to grasshoppers, crickets can be effective bait for perch, especially when they’re chirping in the surrounding vegetation.
Small spinners: Perch are known to strike at shiny objects. Using small spinners in silver or gold colours can entice them to bite.
Tiny jigs: Miniature jigs tipped with a piece of worm or live bait can be deadly for perch. Experiment with different colours and sizes to find what works best in your fishing spot.
Remember, the success of your bait choice can vary depending on the time of year, location, and water conditions. It’s always a good idea to have a variety of baits on hand to adapt to the perch’s preferences on any given day.
Equipment needed for Perch Fishing
Gear Essentials for Perch Fishing:
Fishing Rod: Choose a light or ultralight spinning rod with a sensitive tip to detect subtle perch bites. Aim for a length between 6 to 7 feet for optimal control and casting accuracy.
Reel: Opt for a spinning reel that matches the rod’s specifications. Look for a smooth drag system and a gear ratio suitable for finesse fishing.
Fishing Line: Spool your reel with a 4-8-pound braid. Lighter lines allow for better lure action and help prevent spooking perch.
Hooks: Use a variety of hooks to match the size of your bait. Ensure they are sharp for efficient hook sets. Jig heads are excellent for beginners.
Sinkers: Keep a selection of split shot sinkers in various sizes to adjust your bait’s depth and keep it near the bottom. Get drop shot weights and setups.
Live Bait: Stock up on live bait options such as minnows, worms, maggots, and small crayfish. These baits are highly effective in enticing perch to strike. (Where allowed)
Artificial Lures: Carry an assortment of small jigs, soft plastic grubs, spinners, and crankbaits in natural colours. Experiment with different sizes, shapes, and colours to find what the perch prefer.
Tackle Box: Organize your gear in a tackle box that accommodates small hooks, lures, and accessories. Include a pair of pliers for removing hooks and a line cutter for convenience.
Fishing Accessories: Don’t forget essential accessories such as a fishing hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. These items ensure a comfortable and enjoyable fishing experience.
- Rucksack – Get a roving fishing rucksack. I have one that the rod goes in the side, the net clips on too and it has numerous pockets to make swapping hook sizes and lures quick and easy. Speed is everything.
Remember, the gear mentioned here serves as a starting point for your perch fishing adventures. Adapt and fine-tune your gear selection based on personal preferences and the fishing conditions.