Perch are like a cross between a Bass and a Crappie in means of habitat. My grandpa makes jigs called a "Boogie Bug" and they are really similar to a Little Skunk made by Lisk Lures, but Lisk Lures went out of business and my grandpa started making a lure pretty similar to them. When we fish in the tournament (late August) we usually work the shoreline like we are bass fishing, just casting the jigs next to reeds and lillies and working them back. I always top my jig off with a worm when perch fishing.
If the shoreline isn't productive, we move to deeper water and jig a herring jig with 3 hooks baited with worm or cut bait (small pieces of fresh perch or squaw fillet) and a 1/8 - 1/4 oz lead at the bottom, it is best to not drop anchor when jigging for perch.
Perch are usually always in a school.