Overview
Golden perch school around structure in impoundments and can be located efficiently with side-scan sonar, making them a favourite for sounder-driven fishing.
They respond strongly to rising water and warming temperatures, and a flood pulse in a river system can switch the bite on for weeks.
In lakes they suspend over timber and rock, often well off the bottom, so counting your lure down matters.
Where to find them
- ▸Standing timber and rock walls in impoundments.
- ▸River snags and weir pools.
- ▸Points and creek arms during warming trends.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 6'6"–7' 3–6 kg spin or baitcaster.
- ▸Line: 10–20 lb braid with 15–25 lb leader.
- ▸Lures: 40–60 mm lipless crankbaits, 1/4–1/2 oz blades, small spinnerbaits, worms and shrimp on bait.
Tips from the water
- ▸Vertically jig blades over marked schools rather than casting blind.
- ▸A slow lift-and-drop out-fishes fast retrieves in cool water.
Regulations
Size and bag limits apply in all states. Check local regulations.