Perch are often overlooked on commercial fisheries as they are dominated by the carp and F1s, but can be a rewarding target for anglers seeking a different and challenging fishing session. These underrated predators can grow to impressive sizes, especially in fisheries where they have access to abundant food sources and relatively little fishing pressure.
Obliging in cooler conditions
The activity of most fish stocked in commercials, like carp and F1s, slows down as the weather gets cooler; however, perch remain active and aggressive feeders throughout the year. This makes them a consistent target for anglers seeking a reliable catch as temperatures tumble, and it prevents fish like carp from becoming a nuisance when solely targeting perch, as they often do in summer.
WANT TO CATCH MORE PERCH? READ THIS EXPERT GUIDE FOR SOME BRILLIANT TIPS FOR CATCHING THEM.
Cheap bait bill
One of the appealing aspects of perch fishing is the minimal bait required. A simple combination of prawns and maggots can be highly effective. Use prawns as hookbaits and loosefeed maggots to attract smaller fish, which will in turn attract the larger perch. It can always be worth slipping two red maggots on the hook if you are struggling, the amount of big perch that this hookbait has caught means it cannot be ignored!
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Target shallow water with cover
Perch are unique in their preference for shallow water, even in cold conditions which also keeps you out of the way of the carp. Targeting the margins with a pole or waggler is a fantastic place to start. It pays to sit further back than you normally would as the water is generally much clearer and you can risk spooking the perch if you sit too close.
PERCH FISHING CAN BE A WAITING GAME, MAKE SURE YOU STAY COMFORTABLE WITH THE BEST FISHING CHAIRS.
Every commercial hides potential
While they were once less common in commercial fisheries, perch now inhabit a wide range of venues. Some fisheries may have smaller perch, while others boast impressive giants that can exceed 4 pounds. It is well worth checking our where to fish section or the Facebook pages of your local fisheries to see how big the perch go, there is little point fishing for something that doesn't exist.
A WAGGLER IS A GREAT WAY TO TARGET PERCH, CHECK OUT OUR BUYER'S GUIDES FOR THE BEST RODS TO USE.
Give it a go on your local commercial
Perch fishing on commercial fisheries offers a rewarding and often overlooked opportunity for anglers. By understanding their unique behaviors and adapting your approach accordingly, you can enjoy consistent success. The best advice is to remain positive, perch often feed in small windows and you may catch nothing all day, then land two or three giants in the last 30 minutes of your session as the light begins to fade.
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