You guys need your trolling motor back in service! As you say, it was good to be out there giving it a whirl; better than staying home and cutting the grass or washing the car, right? Hopefully, you guys will get a few more chances at them before they close the lake for the season. That is a nice perch for sure. I might have to set aside a trip just for perch; lately when I've hooked them they have hit hard and given a pretty good tussle, especially the bigger ones like in your picture.
Yes, I was talking to myself; sometimes even I have to ask for expert advice.