When perch fishing comes to mind, many envision coolers full of striped perch destined for a delicious fish fry after a productive day on the water. However, there’s another perch species that offers even better flavor and can be targeted throughout winter. Meet the white perch.
These feisty fish deliver excitement during the winter months without the need for drilling through thick ice. Despite being widely available, especially along the East Coast, white perch often remain underappreciated. Once discovered, they can provide some of the most memorable fishing days of the season.
The Story of the “Silver Bass”
The white perch (Morone americana) isn’t actually a perch. Instead, it belongs to the temperate bass family (Moronidae), alongside striped bass, white bass, and yellow bass. While white and yellow bass are prevalent in the Midwest, their East Coast cousin, often called the “silver bass,” thrives in tidal waters.
White perch are commonly found in tidal creeks and rivers stretching from Nova Scotia to the southern regions of Maryland and Virginia. Landlocked populations exist in many Eastern Seaboard lakes and ponds. Size often depends on habitat, with tidal waters producing fish averaging 8 to 14 inches, and some reaching 16 inches. In landlocked areas, smaller specimens dominate due to rapid reproduction, with large ones exceeding 14 inches.
Identifying and Locating White Perch
White perch stand out from other temperate bass by lacking horizontal stripes. Their sharp silver bodies and spiny, gill-covered structure make them easy to identify but require careful handling.
In tidal areas, they frequent current breaks, deep holes, and vegetation. Forage varies significantly in these environments, ranging from grass shrimp and killifish to small crabs. Conversely, lake-dwelling perch are pelagic, feeding on zooplankton and baitfish like alewife.
Gear and Techniques for Success
Ultralight tackle is the key to success with white perch. A light-action rod paired with a small spinning reel and sensitive braided line allows anglers to detect subtle bites. Rods suitable for yellow perch or drop-shotting for bass work well, particularly those in the 6’10” to 7’2” range.
A favorite setup includes a 5-pound braided mainline with a 4- to 6-pound fluorocarbon leader. One recommended brand is the Cortland Masterbraid for its sensitivity and durability.
Baits and Tactics
Effective bait selection depends on local forage. In tidal waters, live grass shrimp or 2.75-inch soft plastics like the Lunker City Fin-S Fish (in white or Arkansas Shiner) rigged on 1/16- to 1/8-ounce jigheads are proven choices. For lakes, small marabou jigs in white or hot pink are excellent options.
Outgoing tides often yield the best results in brackish areas, especially near pond or lake dams that flow into saltwater systems. These tides push forage into deeper canals, where perch gather. Casting upcurrent and keeping bait near the bottom maximizes success.
In New England lakes, alewife populations fuel the growth of trophy-sized white perch. Matching the hatch with soft plastics like 2.5-inch crappie flukes infused with glow powder can be incredibly effective during low-light conditions. Using forward-facing sonar to locate schools around baitfish is another strategy for consistent catches.
Culinary Appeal
White perch shine not only as a game fish but also on the dinner table. The firm, flaky flesh rivals the flavor of striped bass, making it ideal for fish fries, tacos, or chowder. Removing the red-meat line during cleaning enhances its taste.
When winter fishing options are limited, targeting white perch can provide both thrilling angling and delectable meals. These underrated fish offer a perfect reason to head out on the water this season.
Image/Source: Wired2Fish
