Quote Originally Posted by 6poundtest View Post
As mentioned above, often found on firmer bottoms with less weed cover and gravel. Let your jig go right to the bottom as they usually hug the bottom. I have caught them trolling along with the bluegill and crappie though. Small creature baits would be a good start. I seem to get them often on a Southern Pro Crappie stinger as well. Agree that if you get one, toss your line right back in the same spot as they seem to come in groups when found. Perch eyes are a favored bait while ice fishing for more perch but I've never tried it. Dispatch the fish before taking out an eye to try, please. I've also read that they prefer flats, rather than the actual inclines of drop off areas.

That fish that Alphahawk is holding shows perfectly the sharp point on the back of the gill cover. That WILL get you if you're not aware of it.
I found the ones from my post in a trench with a gravel bottom. The river going through the pond eroded a deeper trench (about 5 feet deep). I'm going to try with a creature bait next time, as I have a few that I set aside as looking "perchy". I'll also ensure to bring a bucket next time.

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