LONGEAR SUNFISH

The longear sunfish is arguably the most colorful freshwater fish in North America. With its vivid mix of turquoise, orange, and red—especially in breeding males—this fish looks like it swam straight out of a tropical reef. It gets its name from its long, dark opercular flap (the “ear”), which extends farther than that of other sunfish.

These sunfish thrive in clean, warm creeks, rivers, and lakes, especially where there’s a steady flow and plenty of rocks or woody debris. They prefer shallow waters with gravel or sand bottoms, often near current. Longears are relatively small but put up a spirited fight and are a favorite among fly anglers due to their aggression and beauty. Their presence is also a good indicator of water quality, making them special in more ways than one.

Record Size: 1 lb

Where to Find Them: Clear, rocky creeks and rivers with slow to moderate current. Look near downed wood, boulders, and root tangles.

Crispy Fried Whole Panfish - Recipes - The Intrepid Eater 

1. Their vivid colors intensify during the spawning season—especially in males.
   
   

2. Longear sunfish sometimes form mixed colonies with bluegill and other species.
   
   

3. They're often used in aquarium setups (with proper permits) due to their beauty.