Because the yellow perch is a glacial lakes species, it is widely distributed except in the unglaciated region of southwestern Wisconsin. Yellow perch are random spawners, and do not construct nests, nor do they guard their eggs and their young. They eat almost anything, but prefer minnows, insect larvae, plankton, and worms. Tackle may range from a simple handline or a fly rod in summer to a short, whippy, jigging rod in winter. Because perch prefer cooler water, the best fishing is usually in deep water.
Perch move about in schools, often numbering in the hundreds.
If one spot is unproductive after a few tries, it is best to move to other spots until a school is located.