Lepomis microlophus
How to identify a Redear Sunfish
Redear Sunfish are found in lakes, rivers and reservoirs with cover (weeds, wood, rock). Use these features as a starting point and compare with a full identification guide before relying on any identification.
EnvironmentFreshwater
SeasonSpring–Fall (early/late low light best)
Habitat and range
Lakes, rivers and reservoirs with cover (weeds, wood, rock)
Where to catch Redear Sunfish
- Lake Havasu (AZ/CA)
- Lake Okeechobee (FL)
- Kerr Lake (VA/NC)
Redear Sunfish by state
State season calendars that list Redear Sunfish — each shows the months it is in season and the official licence source:
- Arizona — seasons, best months and licence info
- California — seasons, best months and licence info
- Florida — seasons, best months and licence info
- North Carolina — seasons, best months and licence info
- Virginia — seasons, best months and licence info
Baits and lures
Jigs · spinners · soft plastics · live bait
Detailed identification guides
Related species
Often caught in the same waters or confused with Redear Sunfish:
- Bantam Sunfish — identification & profile (Freshwater)
- Dollar Sunfish — identification & profile (Freshwater)
- Green Sunfish — identification & profile (Freshwater)
- Longear Sunfish — identification & profile (Freshwater)
- Mud Sunfish — identification & profile (Freshwater)
- Orangespotted Sunfish — identification & profile (Freshwater)
Monthly bite brief
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Do not rely on a photo alone for legal or food-safety decisions. Location, season, life stage and local regulations matter. Confirm any identification that affects possession limits or consumption with the responsible wildlife agency.
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