i know that in the south, when people say perch, they mean bluegill.. which do breed early, tend to stunt in ponds from overcrowding that are don't have enough predators..Originally Posted by foodchain
i'm not sure if you're talking about the same yellow perch (perca flavescens)
yellow perch take up to 2 years to breed for the first time, and put most of there energy into growing before putting energy into reproduction.. they usually reach market size before reaching sexual maturity;
http://www.ftai.com/articles/GAAManciDec00.pdf
and i agree.. start small.. you may be able to find a pond owner that is stocking and will let you get in on his order..