Bruce, the lakes up here that grow the largest perch by far are loaded with scuds (Gammarus Lacustris). I believe they are found in your area as well. Most all large YP I catch are loaded with them. Fisherman that know, collect them for bait.
Also regarding tranporting YP in cold water, I have brought them home from ice-fishing frozen, I mean like a brick,5-6 hours later put them in the sink with water and they wake up and swim around. The kids take great pleasure in their newly thawed pets, although the wife is less than impressed :rolleyes: I'm not suggesting you transport your perch in popsicle form, just a side note.
