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Spotted Sunfish

Spotted Sunfish

Alabama is home to three distinct spotted sunfish species: the Redspotted Sunfish (Lepomis miniatus), Orangespotted Sunfish (Lepomis humilis), and Bluespotted Sunfish (Enneacanthus gloriosus).

Scientific Name: Lepomis miniatus, Lepomis humilis, Enneacanthus gloriosus

Also known as Redspotted Sunfish, Orangespotted Sunfish, Bluespotted Sunfish

Physical Characteristics:
  • All species are relatively small (2-8 inches).
  • Breeding males develop beautiful orange spots along their sides and venter with fins changing from light gray to dark brown.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • The Redspotted Sunfish is most widely distributed, occurring throughout the Tennessee River drainage and most of the Mobile basin, with abundant populations in the Mobile Delta.
  • The Orangespotted Sunfish is found predominantly in the Highland Rim region of the Tennessee River system and Black Belt district of the Mobile basin.
  • The rare Bluespotted Sunfish has limited distribution, found mainly in low-gradient tributaries to the Mobile Delta and Mobile Bay, with one inland record from an overflow pool to the lower Tombigbee River in Washington County.

Key Locations

  • Alabama River drainage, particularly around Millers Ferry Lock and Dam, Mobile Delta and tributaries, Tennessee River system Highland Rim tributaries, Black Belt district of the Mobile basin, lower Tombigbee River in Washington County.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on vegetated backwater areas, around submerged branches, roots, and soft-bottomed areas.
  • Target shallow areas (1-6 feet) near vegetation, fallen timber, and current breaks in streams and rivers.
  • Backwater sloughs.

Spotted Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Spotted Sunfish in Alabama?

Small live worms, crickets, and tiny invertebrates fished under small bobbers. For artificial presentations, try 1/32 to 1/16 ounce jigs with small soft plastics, micro spinners.

When is the best time to fish for Spotted Sunfish in Alabama?

Late spring through early fall when they're most active, avoiding May through August spawning periods.

How do you catch Spotted Sunfish in Alabama?

Fish small baits under small bobbers. Match your presentations to tiny food sources for best results.

What do Spotted Sunfish eat?

Feed primarily on aquatic insect larvae, small crustaceans, and zooplankton. Feed almost exclusively on aquatic insect larvae and small crustaceans.

Where do Spotted Sunfish live in Alabama?

The Redspotted Sunfish is most widely distributed, occurring throughout the Tennessee River drainage and most of the Mobile basin, with abundant populations in the Mobile Delta.

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