Chapter XII -The Compleat Angler

In Chapter XII of “The Compleat Angler,” Piscator and Venator delve into the qualities and behaviors of the perch, a notable fish renowned for its bold biting and predatory nature similar to pike and trout. Perch are distinguished by their unique physical traits, including a back armed with sharp bristles and thick scales, and they exhibit aggressive tendencies, even towards their own kind, a behavior not common in pike. They are celebrated in various regions for their nutritional value, despite opinions on their digestibility differing. Aldrovandus praises the perch in Italy, where small ones are considered delicacies, and Gesner notes the German regard for perch from the River Rhine as particularly wholesome, so much so that they are recommended for consumption by those in recovery, including wounded individuals and women post-childbirth.

The perch is further distinguished by its spawning habits and the presence of a medicinal stone in its brain, valued in apothecaries abroad. Despite their slow growth, perch can reach substantial sizes, exemplified by a remarkable catch by Sir Abraham Williams, who caught a perch nearly two feet in length. This anecdote underscores the perch’s formidable nature, capable of preying on sizeable fish and defending itself against predators like the pike by raising its fins, akin to a turkey-cock’s display.

Piscator emphasizes the perch’s seasonal biting patterns, noting a decreased appetite during winter but an eagerness to bite during warm midday periods and after the danger of frost has passed, as indicated by the budding of mulberry trees. Regarding bait, Piscator advises that worms, minnows, and small frogs are particularly effective, with specific recommendations on how to present these baits to entice the bold perch.

As their discussion progresses, Venator encourages Piscator to continue, despite the inclement weather, drawing an analogy between angling and a form of usury where returns are gained with minimal effort through the enjoyment of their company and discourse. They incorporate a cultural element by referencing verses by Doctor Donne, which celebrate the themes of river life, fish, and the pleasures of fishing, providing a lyrical and idyllic conclusion to their conversation on the merits and techniques associated with angling for perch.