Livebaiting for Perch on Dropshot: A Complete Guide
Fishing is all about the thrill of the catch, and few things match the excitement of seeing a fish take your bait right before your eyes. But that excitement can also bring frustration. Recently, I’ve focused on targeting perch using livebaits with a dropshot rig. This method is simple, versatile, and incredibly effective, especially when you’re after larger perch. Below, I’ll share the rig setup, baiting techniques, and tips to help you get the best results.
Why Livebaiting for Perch?
Livebaiting offers an interactive experience that enhances your chances of hooking into larger perch. Using a dropshot rig with livebaits adds flexibility since this rig can handle not only livebait but also lures and worms. The ability to switch baits based on the situation gives you more options in the water, especially when trying to adapt to perch behavior.
Using a Wire Trace to Avoid Pike Bite-Offs
When livebaiting for perch, using a wire trace is essential to prevent bite-offs from pike, which are often drawn to livebait. While lure fishing might not always need a wire trace, livebaits are highly attractive to pike, so it’s wise to add this protection. My choice of wire is the AFW Surflon Micro Supreme, known for its fine diameter and supple strength. A 13lb breaking strain is sufficient for handling even sizable pike if they take the bait.
Rig and Setup for Perch Livebaiting
Here’s a breakdown of my preferred rig setup for livebaiting perch:
- Wire Trace: I use about 30cm of AFW Surflon Micro Supreme wire, tying it directly to my hook with a palomar knot. At the opposite end, I use a figure-of-eight loop knot to attach it to my fluorocarbon leader.
- Hook: I prefer the VMC Spinshot size 4 hook. It comes with a built-in swivel, giving the bait or lure free movement, which is ideal for attracting perch.
- Leader: Above the wire trace, I use a 20lb Seaguar Ace Hard fluorocarbon leader. This tough fluorocarbon resists abrasion, which is useful when fishing near boats, snags, or other rough structures.
- Mainline: For the mainline, I rely on Sufix 832 Advanced Superline, with a 0.10mm diameter and 13lb breaking strain, which pairs well with a 7ft, 3-15g rod and a 1000 size reel.
This setup balances sensitivity with strength, enabling you to handle both the delicate takes of perch and any accidental pike encounters.
Where and How to Target Perch with Livebaits
To increase your chances of hooking perch, look for structures where they tend to hide. Overhanging trees, boats, and locks are perfect spots to drop your bait. I usually place the livebait as close to these features as possible, as this is where the perch are most likely to strike.
If there’s no immediate action, I’ll gradually work the bait back towards open water. Perch often patrol the open water when actively hunting, so covering all areas around these structures can pay off. It’s important to remember that just because you present a roach or rudd doesn’t mean the perch will automatically strike. Sometimes, they need a little convincing. Moving the livebait just enough to catch their attention can trigger their predatory instincts.
Patience Pays Off: Stories from the Water
On one outing, I spotted a large perch near a boat and thought it would be an easy catch. However, after dropping a 10cm rudd in front of it three times, the perch showed no interest. Finally, on the fourth try, it struck, inhaling the bait in one swift motion! This showed me the importance of persistence. Even if a perch seems uninterested initially, sometimes persistence and a few adjustments can trigger a strike.
In contrast, a trip a few weeks later saw immediate action, with perch striking much faster. One even took the bait so quickly that I barely had time to react, as line peeled off before I could close the bail arm!
Final Tips for Livebaiting Success
If you’re looking to catch larger perch, especially in areas where smaller ones are abundant, livebaiting can help you target those bigger fish. Find a spot with cover or structure, be patient, and make adjustments as needed. Livebaiting for perch requires some finesse, but the reward of a successful catch is well worth the effort.
