Yellow perch are considered to be fun, easy to catch and a joy to eat. The flesh is firm and makes excellent table fare and is comparable to walleye in quality.
Range: Statewide
Commonly Mistaken Species: One species of fish that is commonly mistaken for this species is
Walleye
Habitat & Range
Yellow perch can be found in a variety of habitats from cool, clear waters to warm waters. They occur in creeks, streams, rivers and reservoirs. Yellow perch are tolerant of acidic waters and salinities up to about 12 percent.
Life History
Spawning: - Yellow perch spawn from March to May in water temperatures of 45-55°F.
- Females, dependent upon size, can produce anywhere from 3,000 to 150,000 eggs. The female yellow perch has a single ovary that produces an accordion-like gelatinous ribbon of densely packed eggs. This single ovary arrangement is unique among North American fishes.
- Spawning is a communal affair with up to 25 males pursuing a single female.
- The ribbon of eggs is deposited in and around vegetation and the submerged branches of trees. Eggs hatch in two to three weeks.
Diet: - Aquatic insects, crayfish and fish
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
5-8 inches Average Size:
Lifespan
Approximately 21 years
State Record
: 3 pounds 4 ounces (1979)
