The perches are a family of spiny-rayed freshwater fishes with two dorsal fins and one or two anal fin spines. Most perches are elongate, moderately compressed fishes. They can be found throughout North America and especially in the Northeast. Many are valued sport and food fishes. Some species, such as the Yellow Perch and the Walleye, have sawtoothlike edges on their cheekbones. The Yellow Perch lives in schools in deep water and moves into shallower water to feed at dawn and dusk.

Look For: A yellowish perch with vertical bars on sides. Pelvic fins orange or red.

Length: 12".

Habitat: Quiet waters of lakes, ponds, streams.

Range: Much of Canada and northeastern U.S.; introduced in many other areas.