Yellow Perch: Facts, Records, and How to Catch Them | FishyAF
What is a Yellow Perch?
The Yellow Perch is the golden prize of freshwater fishing — bold stripes, orange fins, and an appetite for anything that moves. They’re schooling fish that hit hard, taste amazing, and are found in lakes and rivers all across the northern U.S. and Canada.
The first FishyAF ambassador to land one? @marktheshark13 — proving he’s just as deadly on the lake as he is offshore. One cast, one perch, and one very smug grin.
Here’s your go-to FishyAF guide to Yellow Perch — where they live, what bait they love, and how to turn a limit into a fish fry. Click here to see what freshwater crushers are wearing.
🐟 Yellow Perch Quick Facts
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Perca flavescens |
| Average Size | 8–12 inches, 0.5–1 lb (trophies reach 2+ lbs) |
| World Record | 4 lbs 3 oz — Bordentown, NJ (1865) |
| Habitat | Lakes, rivers, and reservoirs across North America |
| Edible? | Absolutely — considered one of the best-tasting freshwater fish |
❓ FAQs About Yellow Perch
Where can you catch Yellow Perch?
Yellow Perch thrive in cool freshwater lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. They’re most common in the Great Lakes region, Upper Midwest, and throughout New England. Find weed lines or drop-offs, and you’ll find Perch.
How big do Yellow Perch get?
Most weigh under a pound, but “jumbo perch” can exceed 14 inches and 2 lbs. The world record is 4 lbs 3 oz — an absolute tank caught way back in 1865.
What is the world record Yellow Perch?
The official IGFA record is 4 lbs 3 oz, caught in Bordentown, New Jersey. That record has stood for over 150 years — talk about legendary status.
What is the size limit for Yellow Perch?
⚠️ Size and creel limits vary widely by state. Most regions allow generous harvests since Perch are abundant, but check your local DNR regulations before you fill a cooler.
Are Yellow Perch good to eat?
One of the best-tasting freshwater fish on Earth. White, firm, and slightly sweet — perfect for pan-frying or deep-frying. They’re the star of many Midwest fish fries.
How do you cook Yellow Perch?
Classic style: dredge fillets in flour or breadcrumbs, fry until golden, and serve with lemon. Or go gourmet with baked perch topped with garlic butter and herbs.
What is the best bait to catch Yellow Perch?
Small minnows, worms, or soft-plastic grubs on light jigs. In winter, tiny spoons and waxworms dominate the ice-fishing scene.
😂 FishyAF Yellow Perch Joke
Yellow Perch — proof that stripes never go out of style.
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🧢 Gear Up with FishyAF
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