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Attention hunters: Visit our FAQ page for information about the use of centerfire, single-shot rifles for deer hunting in Illinois. 

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Perch

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Characteristics of perches include two dorsal fins, pelvic fins that are in the throat region with one spine and five rays and ctenoid scales.

Jun2016Walleye.JPG
walleye (Sander vitreus)
Illinois Range: statewide
Size: 12-28” long
Habitat: lakes, reservoirs, streams
Food: insects, fishes
Best Lures: minnows, minnow-spinner combinations, spinners, crankbaits, nightcrawlers, worms, frogs, crayfish

sauger (Sander canadensis)
Illinois Range: statewide
Size: average 11" long
Habitat: large rivers
Food: fishes, crayfish, insects, frogs, snails
Best Lures: minnows

Jun2016YellowPerch.JPG
yellow perch (Perca flavescens)
Illinois Range: northern one-half of the state, Lake Michigan, Mississippi River
Size: 6-10" long
Habitat: rivers, lakes
Food: insects, fishes
Best Lures: minnows, worms, mayfly nymphs