Description
Size
- Adults generally weigh less than half a kilogram (one pound) and are rarely longer than 25 centimetres (10 inches).
Appearance
- Their general body colour is golden yellow or green, with broad, dark vertical bands on the side.
- They have needle-like spines on the dorsal fin.
Distribution
- Yellow perch are well-distributed throughout Alberta, except in the foothills and the mountains.
- The illegal stocking of perch into stocked trout ponds is a concern to the angling community. Yellow perch compete with local trout species when introduced.
Natural History
Habitat
- This species usually travels in schools, and can often be found in shallows, bays, and patches of weeds.
- Perch are more tolerant of low winter oxygen levels than many other native fish species in Alberta. However, they are still susceptible to winterkill. For more, see:
Food
- Diet consists of insects and other small organisms. Larger perch also eat other fish.
Reproduction and Growth
Breeding Behaviour
- Spawning occurs in spring.
- Unlike other cool-water fishes that simply release eggs, perch lay their eggs in long, jelly-like bands.
Conservation and Management
Status
Yellow perch are classified as Secure in the current General Status of Alberta Wild Species report. See:
Current management
Fishing
Perch are the most common sport fish in Alberta, giving hours of enjoyment to beginning young anglers. They are a very popular winter sport fish.
Yellow perch are cool-water game fish subject to current Alberta sportfishing regulations. For details, see the My Wild Alberta website at:
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