RedearSunfish

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Redear Sunfish (Lepomis microlophus)

Description:

Non-native. Introduced in 1946. The "Red-ear" sunfish has a black opercle flap which is bordered with a reddish or orange color on the rear of the flap. Sides of head have olive-brown speckling. Body is compressed or flat with an olive-green cast, light speckling on sides. Pectoral fin long and pointed, usually extends far past eye when bent forward. Length: 6 to 14 inches. Weight: 3 oz. to over 3 lbs.

Location and Habitat:

Found statewide in warm water lakes, ponds and reservoirs. Prefer clear lakes with some aquatic vegetation; relate to deep bottom structure. The redear is one of the largest sunfish, although not as widely spread as others. In many parts of the south, the redear spawning season is a heralded event.

Foods:

The redear is particularly fond of shellfish such as snails and clams, which it grinds up with its special molarlike pharyngeal (located in the throat) teeth (hence the name, shellcracker).

Angling:

Redear seem to reject baits that offer resistance such as lead weights and bite gently. Fish with worms on the bottom, without weight or bobber, and simply allow the bait to lie motionless. Periodically move the bait a foot or so.

Nicknames: Shellcracker, stumpknocker

Table Quality: