Features: Sacramento perch are blackish above with about seven vertical dark bars that are irregular in form and position. They are not a true perch, but a sunfish. It is the only member of the sunfish family native to the west coast and, in Oregon, is found only in the Klamath Basin. Sacramento perch are distinguished from the other sunfish in Oregon by having 12 or 13 dorsal fin spines whereas all the others have 10 or fewer. Maximum size in Oregon is about 12 inches in length and a weight of about 3/4 pound, although in California they have been known to reach a length of 24 inches.

Habitat: Sacramento perch prefer sloughs and slow-flowing streams. Compared with the introduced sunfishes, this species is difficult to catch. However for edibility, it ranks among the best.

Technique: Sacramento perch are best targeted during the late spring when they are spawning and can be found in shallow water where they are highly visible. Look for them in ½ to 6 feet of water in wind-protected areas such as the back ends of coves. They will often be over sand or gravel bottoms where these are available. Spawning begins when the temperature approaches 68oF. At other times of the year find them near weed beds, along drop-offs or around submerged woody debris. Use a bobber rig and size 10 or 12 hook baited with worms, meal worm, crickets, piece of nightcrawler or other natural bait.