Perch Fishing in Coloured Water with Lures
Perch Fishing in Coloured Water with Lures
September 8, 2024
Fishing on the Grand Union Canal is always an adventure. With miles of water to explore, it’s a fantastic location to target perch, one of the most popular species among freshwater anglers. Over the past couple of sessions, I spent some quality time on the canal, honing my skills and learning a few valuable lessons on how to effectively target perch using lures. In this article, I’ll share my experiences, some tips for perch fishing in coloured water with lures, and a few tricks that can make your next trip to the Grand Union Canal more successful.
Getting ready to tackle the canal with lures
Targeting Perch on the Grand Union Canal
Perch are a predatory species, and they are often quite active in the canal, especially when you know where to look. The Grand Union Canal also holds a good population of zander, another predatory fish that adds a bit of excitement to the mix. However, during my recent sessions, my primary focus was on the perch.
One of the first things to consider when targeting perch in any canal, particularly on the Grand Union, is water clarity. After a period of rain or when boat traffic is high, the water can become quite murky. This can pose a challenge, but with the right approach, you can still have a productive day.
perch fishing in coloured water with lures
Tips for Fishing Colored Water with Lures
When the water is colored, visibility is reduced, and this makes it harder for perch to spot your lures. During my sessions, I found that choosing the right lure was crucial. I had great success using Fox Rage Slick Shads. These lures are designed to create a lot of vibration and movement in the water, which helps attract fish even when visibility is poor. I opted for bright colors such as chartreuse or white, which stand out in murky conditions.
Fox Rage Slick Shads and Spikey Shads
Another useful tip is to scale down your lures when the fishing gets tough. There were times when the perch seemed hesitant or less active, and that’s when I switched to smaller-sized Slick Shads. Scaling down can often trigger bites from more cautious fish. A smaller lure is less intimidating and can mimic a small prey fish, which is perfect for enticing a wary perch.
Small Spikey Shad on the dropshot
The Importance of Mobility
One of the key lessons I learned while fishing on the Grand Union Canal is the importance of mobility. Perch are not always in the same spot; they can move around quite a bit, especially in a canal environment. To increase your chances of catching, it’s essential to cover plenty of water.
I kept moving throughout my sessions, casting along the bank, near overhanging trees, around boats, and other structures. The idea is to keep searching and not to stay in one spot for too long. By moving frequently, you can locate the active fish more quickly.
Cover plenty of water
Key Features to Focus On
When fishing for perch on the Grand Union Canal, it’s essential to focus on certain key features. Over the course of my sessions, I found that perch were often located near lock gates, bends, boats, and places where the main canal splits into tributaries. These areas tend to hold fish because they offer shelter, ambush points for hunting, and are natural gathering spots for prey.
Nice perch from the grand union canal
Lock gates are especially productive because the flow of water often attracts baitfish, which in turn attracts perch. Similarly, boats offer a bit of shade and can also attract small fish that perch love to hunt. Don’t ignore the bends in the canal either; the change in direction can create a slower flow of water, making it easier for perch to hang around and ambush their prey.
Scaling Down When Things Get Tricky
There were moments during my sessions when the bites dried up, and it felt like the perch had disappeared. When this happens, it’s easy to get frustrated, but it’s essential to adapt your strategy. One of the most effective ways to get back on track is to scale down your lures.
Scaling down lures to get more bites
I started using smaller lures, like a micro-jig or a scaled-down version of the Fox Rage Slick Shad. These smaller lures often make a big difference because they offer a more subtle presentation. Perch can be quite finicky, especially if they are pressured or if the conditions are not ideal. Downsizing your lure can make it easier to tempt a reluctant fish to bite.
The Role of Zander in the Canal
Immaculate zander taken on a Fox Rage Spikey Shad
While perch were my primary target, the Grand Union Canal is also known for its population of zander. Zander are also predatory fish and can provide a surprising catch when you’re targeting perch. During one of my sessions, I had the unexpected pleasure of hooking into a zander while working a lure along the edge of a boat mooring. It’s always a thrill to catch a zander because they are known for their sharp teeth and aggressive fighting style. Just remember to handle them carefully and use a landing net to avoid any injuries from their teeth.
Lots of nice little zander from the grand union
Final Thoughts
I hope this article has been helpful in providing some practical tips and insights into perch fishing in coloured water with lures. Remember, the key to success is adaptability – be prepared to change your tactics based on the conditions and the fish’s behavior. Keep your lures moving, focus on the key features of the canal, and don’t be afraid to downsize when the going gets tough.
Perch fishing with the dropshot
Fishing is a learning experience, and every session on the water teaches you something new. So, grab your gear, hit the canal, and enjoy the process of honing your skills. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Grand Union Canal offers plenty of opportunities for a rewarding fishing experience.
Big perch from grand union canal on a bright shad
Good luck with your lure fishing, and tight lines!