290 AMERICAN FISHES. 



PEARCH FISHING. 



In every pond and river of America is this fish found, and none of 

 the smaller and less vigorous biters are greater favorites with the 

 angler. 



There is, in my opinion, but one distinct species of the Yellow 

 Pearch in Ameiica, although there are several strongly-marked, but 

 I think casual varieties. In the salt-water bays, however, and the 

 estuaries of tide rivers, there are two small and distinct species of the 

 Bass, the little White Bass, Labrax Pallidus, and the Ruddy Bass, 

 Labrax Rufus, both of which are constantly confounded with the 

 Pearch, to which they bear a strong resemblance, being members of 

 one and the same family, and are called by the New York fishermen 

 Sea Pearch, White Pearch, and Salt-water Pearch. 



These brave and hardy little fish run from a few ounces up to a 

 quarter, and occasionally half a pound weight, which may be considered 

 their maximum. They swim in large shoals, near the surface of the 

 water, and are a most delicious fish. The Yellow Pearch is found 

 occasionally in company with them, although he rather aflFects fresher 

 water, and I have thought that when taken in tide streams he wears a 

 greener garb than his ordinary dress. 



The Minnow, the red worm, and at times small Shrimp will take all 

 these varieties in the salt water ; and from the very earliest dawn of 

 spring to the setting in of severe cold weather, it is rare but the angler 

 can find some sport with these quick and lively biters. 



In almost every lakelet and pond from the sea-board to Lake Huron, 

 the Pearch abounds, swimming in company with the Sun-fish, Pomotis 

 Vulgaris, and the New York Shiner, Stilbe Chrysoleucas ; they run 

 from half a pound up to three, four, and occasionally even five pounds 

 weight. 



Saratoga Lake, the Greenwood Lake, in Orange County, New York, 



