Get ready to reel in the action on Lake Erie's western basin! Our Full Day Perch Trip takes you right to where the yellow perch are biting. We're talking prime fishing grounds from Camp Perry all the way past Marblehead Lighthouse. The perch fishing here has been on fire lately, with hatch numbers climbing over the last few years. You'll be aboard the Julia May, our trusty vessel that knows these waters like the back of her hand. And here's the kicker - we've got a whole network of seasoned captains sharing real-time intel on where the fish are schooling. It's like having an entire fleet working to put you on the fish.
Picture this: You're out on the lake, the sun's warming your face, and your line's in the water before you can say "fish on!" We'll cruise to the hotspots, whether that's hugging the shoreline near Camp Perry or venturing out past the iconic Marblehead Lighthouse. Our crew's got eyes like hawks when it comes to spotting those telltale signs of a perch school below. We're talking about a full day of dropping lines, swapping stories, and hopefully, hauling in enough perch to make your arms sore. Just remember, while we provide the know-how and the boat, meals aren't included - so pack a lunch and plenty of snacks to keep your energy up for all that reeling!
Now, let's talk tactics. Perch fishing in Lake Erie isn't your grandpa's bobber-and-worm game (though that can work too). We typically use light tackle with spreaders or crappie rigs baited with minnows or worms. Sometimes, we'll even break out the perch spinners if the bite is really on. We'll be fishing anywhere from 15 to 40 feet deep, depending on where those little yellow striped bandits are hanging out. The key is to keep your bait near the bottom - that's where the perch like to cruise. And when you feel that telltale tap-tap-tap? Set the hook and hold on tight! These Erie perch might not be monsters, but they fight hard for their size and boy, do they taste good.
Let me tell you, there's something special about perch fishing on Erie that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the non-stop action when you hit a school just right. Or the satisfaction of filling a cooler with those golden-scaled beauties. Could be the chance to see that historic Marblehead Lighthouse from the water. Whatever it is, our regulars swear by it. Plus, with our six-person capacity, it's perfect for small groups or families looking to make some memories on the water. Just be warned - perch fishing can be addictive. Don't be surprised if you find yourself checking the calendar for your next trip before we even hit the dock!
American Yellow Perch - these are the stars of our show, and for good reason. Lake Erie's yellow perch are some of the best eating fish you'll ever taste. They typically run 8-12 inches long, but we've seen some real jumbos push 14 inches or more. These feisty little guys travel in schools, so when you find 'em, it's game on. They've got a mild, sweet flavor that even folks who aren't big on fish tend to love. Best of all, they're active year-round, though fall is prime time when they're fattening up for winter. The fight might not break your rod, but the constant action and delicious payoff make perch fishing a customer favorite.
While we're targeting perch, don't be surprised if you hook into some bonus catches. Walleye, smallmouth bass, and white bass all call these waters home. Each one adds its own excitement to the day. Walleye, in particular, can really get your heart racing if you hook into one on light perch tackle!
Look, if you're itching for a day on the water that combines non-stop action with the chance to bring home a tasty dinner, our Full Day Perch Trip is calling your name. With Lake Erie's perch population on the upswing and our crew's local knowledge, you're in for a top-rated fishing experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got you covered. Just remember, good fishing trips fill up fast, especially when the bite is hot. So don't wait - grab your spot on the Julia May and get ready for a day of perch-pulling fun. Trust me, your taste buds (and your fishing stories) will thank you later!
Yellow perch are a staple in Lake Erie, usually running 7-10 inches. These golden-sided fish with dark vertical bars love hanging around weed beds and submerged structures in 15-30 feet of water. Spring and fall are prime times, but you can catch 'em year-round. Folks love targeting perch for their tasty, mild fillets and the fun of pulling in a whole mess of them. They're schooling fish, so when you find one, you've usually found a bunch. Light tackle and live bait like minnows or worms work great. Here's a local tip: If the bite slows down, try downsizing your hook and bait. Sometimes the bigger perch get finicky and want a smaller offering. And don't be afraid to move around – these fish are always on the hunt for food, so finding an active school can mean non-stop action.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Twin Volvo 454’s
Maximum Cruising Speed: 30
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 330