The Lake Michigan perch season in Wisconsin opens on June 16 and runs through April 30 of the following year. This continuous season is a crucial time for anglers looking to target the popular yellow perch in the waters of Lake Michigan.
Current Status of Yellow Perch Populations in Lake Michigan
The yellow perch population in Lake Michigan has been experiencing a concerning decline in recent years. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the abundance of adult yellow perch in Lake Michigan off Milwaukee has been low, and the production of young-of-the-year (YOY) yellow perch has been minimal since 1989. This recruitment failure has resulted in a significant reduction in assessment catches in Wisconsin and Indiana waters.
Best Tactics for Catching Lake Michigan Perch from Shore in Wisconsin
For anglers looking to catch Lake Michigan perch from the shore in Wisconsin, there are several effective tactics to consider:
- Timing: Focus on the early morning and late evening hours when perch are more active and feeding.
- Bait: Use small jigs or live bait such as minnows, worms, or crickets to entice the perch.
- Locations: Target areas with structural features like rocks, weed beds, or drop-offs, as these can be prime spots for perch to congregate.
- Gear: Utilize light tackle and a sensitive rod to better detect the subtle bites of the perch.
- Techniques: Try casting or bottom fishing with a slow, gentle presentation to avoid spooking the fish.
Additional Information
- Perch Closure: It’s important to note that perch fishing is closed on Illinois’ Lake Michigan from May 1 to June 15.
- Wisconsin Fishing Seasons: The general inland fishing season in Wisconsin opens on the first Saturday in May, with specific regulations for different species and waters.
- Lake Michigan Tributaries: The open season for yellow perch in Lake Michigan tributaries is also from June 16 to April 30.
References
- Chicago Sun-Times. (2024, April 30). Chicago fishing: Spring signs abound, perch closure and Wisconsin opener. Retrieved from https://chicago.suntimes.com/outdoors/2024/04/30/chicago-fishing-spring-signs-abound-perch-closure-and-wisconsin-opener
- Fishing Booker. (2024, June 17). Fishing Seasons in Wisconsin: The Complete Guide for 2024. Retrieved from https://fishingbooker.com/blog/fishing-seasons-in-wisconsin-the-complete-guide/
- eRegulations. (n.d.). Fish Species List – Wisconsin. Retrieved from https://www.eregulations.com/wisconsin/fishing/fish-species-list
- Wisconsin DNR. (n.d.). Yellow Perch Research – Fishing – Wisconsin DNR. Retrieved from https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Fishing/lakemichigan/Yellowperch.html
The Lake Michigan perch season in Wisconsin is a crucial time for anglers looking to target the popular yellow perch. While the population has been in decline in recent years, understanding the best tactics and staying up-to-date on the latest regulations can help ensure a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.