WikiCatch
Channel darter
Percina copelandi
Overview
The channel darter is a species of freshwater ray-finned fish, a darter from the subfamily Etheostomatinae, part of the family Percidae, which also contains the perches, ruffes and pikeperches. It is native to North America where it typically occurs in the sandy or gravelly shallows of lakes and in small and medium-sized rivers in riffles over sand, gravel or rock bottoms. It is a small fish ranging from 34 to 72 mm in length, olive brown with darker speckles and sometimes with a dark spot below the eye and dark blotches along the flank. It feeds mostly on insect larvae and other small invertebrates and breeds in small streams. This species is listed as threatened by the Canadian Species at Risk Act (SARA) but overall it has a wide range and numerous sub-populations and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated it as a "least concern species".
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Small Earthworms
Piece of worm on small hook.
- Waxworms
Effective on small jigs or hooks.
- Mealworms
Easy to keep alive, good presentation.
- Midge Larvae (Bloodworms)
Great for enticing picky darters.
- Small Crickets
If available, use small sizes.
Artificial Lures
- Mepps Aglia MicroSpinnerBuy
Small spinner, slow retrieve.
- Panther Martin Spinner - 1/32 ozSpinnerBuy
Small, lightweight spinner.
- Z-Man Micro Finesse TRDSoft PlasticBuy
Ned rig setup, slow presentation.
- Northland Tackle Mimic Minnow FrySoft PlasticBuy
Small grub on jighead.
- Marabou Jig - 1/32 ozJigBuy
Small jig drifted near bottom.
Techniques
Use light tackle and clear lines; channel darters are easily spooked in clear water and don't usually strike hard.
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Where to Find Channel darter
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Channel darter?+
Popular baits for Channel darter include Small Earthworms, Waxworms, Mealworms, Midge Larvae (Bloodworms), Small Crickets. Tip: Use light tackle and clear lines; channel darters are easily spooked in clear water and don't usually strike hard.
Where can I catch Channel darter?+
Channel darter can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Ohio, United States; Mississippi, United States. WikiCatch lists 2 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Channel darter get?+
Channel darter (Percina copelandi) can reach up to 7.199999999999999 cm in length and 0.1 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
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