Fishing America: White Perch
By Ronald Moody
White perch, otherwise known as perch or silver perch, are a
species native to the freshwater regions of Maine. Originally,
white perch tended to be found primarily in coastal ponds,
streams and estuaries, though over the past century have been
gradually introduced into rivers and lakes further inland.
Their presence is now not uncommon, with thriving populations
present throughout many of Maine’s many freshwater systems.
White perch are one of Maine’s premier game fish, favoured for
their relative abundance and ease of angling. As a result,
white perch are often recommended as a starting point for young
anglers and beginners alike, who can land great catches with
little or no previous experience.
The white perch is easily identifiable by its spiny fin and
large scales. The back and upper side of the fish are typically
dark-grey in colour, whilst its lower sides and belly exhibit
silver and white colouring respectively. On average, a healthy
six year old perch will be around a foot in length, though due
to overpopulation in artificially stocked lakes, many perch
experience stunted growth, and as a result the lengths of these
fish vary greatly depending on their habitat. If you are looking
for big perch, your best bet is to locate a coastal lake or
stream that has a natural stock of the species rather than an
artificially stocked lake further inland, though you are likely
to have to work harder for your catch.
White perch can be caught in many ways, though by far the
simplest is using minnows, worms or cut bait. Another advantage
of this fish is its availability all year round, though the best
catches can be made in early spring time. White perch also tend
to feed near the bottom, so aiming for the deeper waters can
yield even better results.
As mentioned already, white perch are one of the most common
fish, and as a result can be found in most freshwater areas in
Maine. Popular spots include the Sebago River, Lincoln Lakes
Region, Belgrade Lakes and Grand Lake Region, though arguably
wherever you decide to go, there are likely to be white perch
nearby! Though white perch are not highly regarded by many
seasoned veterans, there is no doubting that they are great for
young and inexperienced anglers looking to make their first
catch.
About The Author: Ronald Moody has been an avid fisherman for
over 40 years. He enjoys all types of fishing, but especially
likes salt-water fishing; he has been all over the country
practicing his hobby. He is the owner and operator of
FishingZoo.com, a website dedicated to inform
fisherman about Maine fishing, fishing locations, and fish
supply products.
