Soft plastic lures - many designs and actions - catch perch (white and yeillow), crappie, sunfish, bass, rock bass and even the occassional catfish. Jig heads from 1/32-3/22 oz do fine with plastics when hook size is correct. I never use live bait under a float, but many do well using it.
Usual jig hook sizes are #8, #6 and #4. Line type is optional but small diameter lines allow for best lure action; braid allows for the slightest strike detection and hook-sets at a greater distance than mono or fluorocarbon. Lures must be worked slowly for all species regardless of water temperature, depth or season.

Fish location is everything and different lakes/ ponds have different bottom types and depths, vegetation, coves, unique seasonal patterns, etc. In one lake I fish, yp are in the shallow north end in spring and then scattered with other species in deeper water. You may catch 4 fish species in one area in say 7' that include yp. Guess they like to congregate ; )

Fan cast around the boat (if in one) or move along the shore and cast as far as you can. WORK WATER! If you catch any fish, note a shoreline landmark and cast back to the same spot. Perch and other fish school in small or large groups. Catch one and it's possible to catch a dozen in the same spot.