Perch

Yellow perch fishing in the waters near Gary, Indiana, can be a rewarding experience, particularly for families and those new to fishing. Lake Michigan offers decent perch opportunities, especially around the piers, breakwalls, and weedy areas near shore. The best time to target perch is typically in the late summer and fall, when they school up in larger numbers. Use a simple perch rig with small hooks baited with minnows, worms, or wax worms. Focus your efforts in areas with a sandy or silty bottom. A practical tip: use a chum bag filled with crushed minnows or fish meal to attract perch to your fishing spot. Lake conditions can change quickly, so pay attention to the weather forecast before heading out. Access to Lake Michigan is available at several public access points in and around Gary, but be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.