What water temperature range typically triggers the early spring spawning ritual for yellow perch?
Answer
45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit
The reproductive timing for yellow perch is intrinsically linked to the onset of spring warming trends following the ice-out period. Spawning commences relatively early in the season, generally when the water temperatures begin to ascend and settle within the narrow range of 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Reaching this specific thermal threshold signals to the mature fish that conditions are suitable for depositing eggs. This early spawning behavior positions them among the first fish to reproduce in many northern aquatic ecosystems, which is important context when considering the food availability for the subsequent fry.

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