Species guide

How to catch Golden perch

Macquaria ambigua

Stylized 2D illustration of Golden perch
freshwatergame fishPercichthyidae

Golden perch are freshwater game fish known for their strong migrations during floods to spawn successfully. They have a short, deep body and can grow quite large. These fish are active predators, often hunting other freshwater creatures.

Where they live

Golden perch inhabit freshwater rivers, floodplain lakes, dams, and reservoirs in Oceania, especially in Victoria and New South Wales. They migrate with rising river levels and floods, usually staying in waters up to 10 meters deep.

Typical size

Up to about 76 cm

What they eat

  • Freshwater crayfish
  • Small fish
  • Insects
  • Macroinvertebrates

Best baits

  • Freshwater crayfish
  • Worms
  • Small fish pieces

Best lures

  • Soft plastic lures
  • Spinnerbaits
  • Hardbody crankbaits
  • Vibration blades

How to fish for them

  • Casting from shore
  • Trolling
  • Fly fishing
  • Drift fishing

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How to catch Golden perch | Bobbr