5 Things to Know About Lake Erie Perch and Pickerel in Niagara Falls

Lake Erie perch and pickerel (walleye) dominate nearly every seafood menu in Niagara Falls. The lake is just a half-hour drive away, so the fish arrives as fresh as inland gets.

Perch is a small, flaky white fish with a mild, sweet flavor. It is typically breaded and fried, served as sandwiches or dinners.

Pickerel is the local name for walleye, a larger, firmer fish with a clean taste. It is often grilled, broiled, or fried, and holds up well to bold seasonings.

Both fish are sustainably fished from Lake Erie, one of the most productive freshwater fisheries in the world. Ordering them supports local fishing communities.

Do not confuse pickerel with true pickerel, a different species found in eastern North America. In Niagara Falls, pickerel always means walleye.