Description

The white perch has a similar body shape as the closely related white bass but has no dark stripes along its sides. They have a completely silver body with a darker back and lighter colored belly.

Habitat and Habits

White perch are not native to Ohio and have been introduced from the Atlantic coast. They are found in brackish water and in the lower portion of rivers along the coast. In Ohio they have become well established in Lake Erie and the lower portion of its tributaries. They have also become established in a few inland reservoirs such as LaDue, East Fork, and Sippo Lake. These fish tend to become stunted and overpopulate smaller bodies of water. Additionally they can harm native fish populations by consuming the eggs of these species. It is illegal to transport these fish and release them in a different location. Please do your part to prevent them from spreading to more of our lakes, reservoirs, and streams.

Reproduction and Care of the Young

White perch spawn in tributaries of larger water bodies in April and May. They release their adhesive eggs randomly into shallow water.

Quick Facts

• Fish Family: Moronidae (Temperate Basses)


• Other Names:Silver perch, gray perch, blue nose perch


• Ohio River: Introduced and sport fish.


• Adult Size: Typically 7-12 inches, can reach 15 inches. Usually less than 1 pound, can reach 2 pounds.


• Typical Foods: Aquatic insects, invertebrates, small fish, and eggs of other fish species.