Yellow Perch

Yellow Perch are native to some parts of North America, such as the Great Lakes St. Lawrence River and Mississippi River basins, but have been introduced beyond their native range. They can be found in freshwater lakes, ponds, pools of creeks, rivers, along with brackish waters. They are able to withstand a wide range of water temperatures, allowing them to establish in northern and southern lakes in B.C. Yellow Perch have spread northwards into the Pend d’Oreille, Kootenay and Okanagan watersheds in British Columbia from introduced populations in Washington State. They are also present on Vancouver Island and Lower Mainland regions, which is most likely due to intentional introductions.  

• Can impact ecosystem biodiversity by predating heavily on young fish and insects. 
• Are known carriers of parasites that are harmful to other fish species. 
• Can compete with native fish species for food and habitat. 
• Have shown to impact salmon growth and survival in small B.C. lakes where they have been introduced. 
• Once established, Yellow Perch can reproduce and spread quickly. Mature individuals will also swim to new regions in search of food. 

• Do not transfer and/or release Yellow Perch within B.C. Movement of live fish is prohibited in BC. 
• Use of live bait is prohibited in BC. 
• Do not release aquarium fish into the wild. 
• Raise awareness to avoid further spread in B.C. waters. 
• Properly  clean,  drain,  dry  your boat and equipment before entering a new water body.   
• CLEAN  off all plant parts, animals, and mud from boat and equipment (e.g. boots, waders, fishing gear). Use a power wash station if available  
• DRAIN  onto land all items that can hold water (e.g. buckets, livewells, bilge, and ballast)  
• DRY  all items completely before launching into another body of water  
• Report Yellow Perch, or any other invasive species via the Report Invasives phone app, that is available from the provincial website.