Yellow Perch

Buffalo, New York, offers excellent Yellow Perch fishing opportunities on Lake Erie and the Niagara River. Lake Erie is the primary location, known for its large perch population. The best times to fish are spring and fall. In spring, perch move into shallow bays and nearshore areas to spawn. In the fall, they school up in deeper water, making them easier to target. The Niagara River, especially near its mouth, can also be productive, particularly during the fall months. Standard perch rigs baited with minnows or worms are effective. A key local tip is to use a fish finder to locate schools of perch, especially when fishing in deeper water. The perch in Lake Erie are known for their quality, often reaching impressive sizes. However, the population can be subject to fluctuations, so it's wise to check local fishing reports before your trip. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) regulates fishing, so be sure to review the latest regulations for size and creel limits.