When do the Perch start to run on the Potomac?

[steveb1]

I am already getting Spring Fever.  I plan to get out early this year for the Perch run on the Potomac. Is Occoquan river a good spot for Perch? I know its going to depend on the weather, but when approximately is the earliest that Perch can be expected to be caught?

[Dan:]

Depends on ice. Last year me and two buddies caught over 100 perch in 2.5 hours in the third week of February. The water temp was 34 degrees.

The Occoquan is a great place for yellow perch if you have a boat. It will soon be loaded with perch but it is difficult to fish from shore because most of the shoreline is very very steep and/or private property.