Northwest Reel Life October 2024 Volume 4 Issue 2 - Flipbook - Page 16
Small flies, in the nymph
patterns, can also be
effective and add an extra
way to approach these fish.
Yellow Perch
Yellow Perch are another
panfish targeted by
fall anglers in Eastern
Washington. Known for
their aggressive nature, and
flakey tasty filets, perch
are often found schooling
up in deeper water, usually
inhabiting a large mud flat
looking for bloodworms,
but don't overlook the
shallows as temps drop and
baitfish move toward the
shore.
Best spots
Silver Lake, Moses Lake,
Sacheen Lake, and Eloika
Lake rank among prime
locations for yellow perch.
These waters provide plenty
of food and cabbage where
these perch can hide, and
hunt. (Don't forget Long
Lake.)
Techniques
Perch can be caught using
a variety of methods,
but jigging small spoons
tipped with small plastics,
or bait tends to be the
most effective way. Vertical
jigging from a boat can be
best, especially when you
locate a school of perch on
your fish finder.
TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL FALL
PANFISHING IN EASTERN
WASHINGTON
Use light tackle
Panfish have small, soft
mouths and are easily
spooked by heavy tackle.
Light spinning rods, small
reels, and 4-6lb test lines
are ideal for detecting
subtle bites and presenting
small baits effectively.
Look for structure
Panfish are actually drawn
to structures that provide
cover from predators and
access to food.
