Photo: Piet Spaans (Viridiflavus) / Public domain (via Wikimedia Commons)
Perca fluviatilis
European Perch
Freshwater
About this species
A handsome, red-finned predator common throughout European lakes and slow rivers. It hunts in packs, cornering fry against structure. Small spinners, drop-shot worms and jigs draw aggressive strikes.
Season
123456789101112
Depth
1 – 15 m
Habitat Spots
LakeRiverReservoir
Fishing Methods
FloatLureJigging
Bait & Rig
Small spinners, drop-shot rigs with soft-plastic worms, and live or dead minnows fished near submerged structure.
Edibility & Taste
Sweet, firm white flesh rated among the tastiest European freshwater fish; best fried or steamed.
Similar Species
Vivid red pelvic and anal fins and six to nine dark vertical bars distinguish it clearly from yellow perch in regions where both occur.
Record Weight
4 kg