Perch fishing in winter can be a blast. But you need the right lures to get those fish biting. I remember one time, I was out on the ice all day and didn't get a single nibble until I switched to a smaller, jigging spoon. Suddenly, it was fish on! This guide shares the best ice fishing lures for perch to help you fill your bucket. Let's get started and hook some fish.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Jigging Spoons: Versatile, great for attracting perch with flash and movement.
- Small Jig Heads: Ideal for presenting small baits like wax worms or maggots.
- Ice Fishing Soft Plastics: Realistic profiles and enticing action in cold water.
- Rattle Baits: Loud and effective for calling in perch from a distance.
- Vertical Lures: Designed for precise jigging and targeting specific depths.
Top 5 Best Ice Fishing Lures For Perch
1. Acme Kastmaster
The Acme Kastmaster is a classic jigging spoon. It's known for its excellent action and ability to attract fish from a distance. This lure is made with quality materials and has a durable finish.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent action and flash
- ✅ Durable construction
- ✅ Versatile for different jigging techniques
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey
- ❌ Treble hook can snag easily
- ❌ Limited color options compared to some
Verdict: A solid choice for anglers who want a reliable and effective jigging spoon.
2. Northland Tackle Forage Minnow Spoon
This spoon mimics the appearance of a small minnow. It's designed to flutter and wobble on the fall. This action is irresistible to perch. I like that it comes in a ton of colors.
Pros:
- ✅ Realistic minnow profile
- ✅ Enticing flutter action
- ✅ Wide range of colors and sizes
Cons:
- ❌ Paint can chip after heavy use
- ❌ Hooks may need sharpening
- ❌ Can be too light for deeper water
Verdict: Great for shallower water and when perch are feeding on small baitfish.
3. Custom Jigs & Spins Ratso
The Ratso is a soft plastic bait designed for ice fishing. Its ribbed body and curly tail create a lot of movement in the water. This is perfect for attracting perch. It also works well in clear water.
Pros:
- ✅ Lifelike action
- ✅ Versatile rigging options
- ✅ Effective in clear water
Cons:
- ❌ Can be easily damaged by fish
- ❌ Needs to be paired with a jig head
- ❌ Not as effective in murky water
Verdict: Ideal for finesse presentations and attracting finicky perch.
4. Rapala Jigging Rap
The Jigging Rap is a unique lure that swims in a circular motion when jigged. It's a favorite among ice anglers for its ability to trigger strikes. Its action is super erratic.
Pros:
- ✅ Unique swimming action
- ✅ Effective for aggressive perch
- ✅ Durable construction
Cons:
- ❌ Can be expensive
- ❌ Requires specific jigging technique
- ❌ Not as effective for inactive fish
Verdict: A great choice for anglers targeting active perch in deeper water.
5. VMC Tingler Spoon
The VMC Tingler Spoon is designed to create a lot of vibration and flash. It has a unique shape that produces an enticing wobble. It works great in stained water where perch can't see as well.
Pros:
- ✅ High vibration and flash
- ✅ Effective in stained water
- ✅ Quality VMC hook
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too aggressive for some situations
- ❌ May need to add a swivel to prevent line twist
- ❌ Limited size options
Verdict: A good option for attracting perch in low-visibility conditions.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right ice fishing lure can be tricky. Here are some things to consider before you buy.
- Size: Match the lure size to the size of the perch you're targeting and the baitfish they're eating. Smaller lures often work better for perch.
- Color: Experiment with different colors to see what the perch are biting on. Bright colors like chartreuse and orange can be effective in stained water. Natural colors like silver and perch patterns work well in clear water.
- Action: Consider the action of the lure. Jigging spoons create a lot of flash and vibration. Soft plastics offer a more subtle presentation.
- Water Clarity: In clear water, use natural colors and smaller profiles. In stained water, use brighter colors and lures with more vibration.
- Depth: Choose lures that are appropriate for the depth you're fishing. Heavier lures are better for deeper water. Lighter lures are better for shallow water.
- Hooks: Make sure the hooks are sharp and strong enough to handle perch. Replace dull hooks.
- Price: You don't always need to buy the most expensive lures. There are many affordable options that work just as well.
FAQs
Got questions about perch ice fishing lures? Here are some common ones.
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What size lure is best for perch?
Small lures, typically 1-2 inches, work best for perch. Match the size to the baitfish.
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What colors attract perch?
Bright colors like chartreuse and orange work well in stained water. Natural colors like silver and perch patterns are good in clear water.
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How do I jig a lure for perch?
Use short, erratic jigging motions. Vary the speed and height of your jig to see what the perch prefer.
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Do I need to use bait with my ice fishing lures?
Using bait like wax worms or maggots can increase your chances of catching perch. But many lures work well on their own.
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What line should I use for ice fishing for perch?
Use a light line, typically 2-4 pound test. Fluorocarbon line is a good choice because it's nearly invisible in the water.
Conclusion
Finding the right lure can make all the difference when ice fishing for perch. Experiment with different lures, colors, and techniques to see what works best in your area. Don't be afraid to try new things. With a little practice, you'll be catching perch in no time. Good luck and happy fishing!
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