Questions about dropshot rigs for perch

[IceRaider]

For years I've been fishing the old fashioned way with just a bobber, splitshot, and gold aberdeen hook tipped with a waxworm to catch perch. I'd like to try a dropshot rig but have some questions. I did some googling and found lots of dropshot rig diagrams, showing you the sinker, hooks, swivels, etc. But for perch in particular, no mention of what size sinkers to use, what size hooks, or the length of line leading from sinker to hook. So here are my questions:

1. ideal hook size/type for perch
2. size/type sinkers for perch dropshot rigs
3. water depth where perch are suspended most of the time
4. line type/weight for perch

Your help would be appreciated. Also, it'd be nice to know what brands of hooks, sinkers, line are good. Thanks!

[Townie]

I'd opt for a hali-type jig 

[IceRaider]

damn, Townie, you pooped on my thread.

Ok, how's this:
Gamakatsu/Matzuo/Daiichi/Mustad, Octopus hook, size 12
Tungsten dropshot sinker, 3/8-oz.
Place hook 12" above sinker
Seguar InvisX/Sufix Invisiline/Berkley Vanish fluoro, 4-lb. test

[Townie]

 I use a DS rig primarily for smallies open water; but I'm sure it will produce on ice...

Might have line strength issues using 4# test w/ 3/8 sinker. For icin' I never go above 3# (for panfish)

[IceRaider]

3/8 is too much weight?

[panfishman13]

kinda, yeah. especially for perch on the ice. in deep water during summer i can see using heavier weights, but be sure to match the line to the weight.

I wouldn't go above 1/4 oz., and even that's pushing it.
try this:

one to three hooks, 6" intervals, size 10 at largest, size 16 at smallest. jigs or flies can be good as well. (check your regs, some states only allow one hook per line)
1/8 oz. drop shot or bank sinker
4#-6# test, with smaller diameter line leading to the hook, fly fishing tippet material works great.

thump it on the bottom to attract fish and maintain a tight line so you can feel any hits

[erg]

I often will use a swedish pimple with a size 12 chironomid tied up the line about twelve inches.  You can use the spoon to pound the bottom just like a weight, but you also have the chance to pull up doubles.  Some days, you will catch the majority on the pimple, other days they will only touch the fly.  I have also tied teardrop style jigs on top and that works as well.  Just let the fish tell you what they want.