Funky, you may want to read the Alum Kicks Clay Butt threads in the muddy waters section and do some jar testing on your pond's water. Only your fatheads will do well in muddy water and growth will be badly hampered for all other species.

As far as yellow perch, as all have said, they can do very well in your area. If after doing jar tests, your water is in fact muddy, I would seriously consider having it treated and cleared for long term water quality and fish health.