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Green Sunfish

Green Sunfish

Green Sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus) are native to Arkansas and widely distributed throughout the state's lakes, streams, and ponds.

Known locally as "Rice Field Slicks," they're characterized by a larger mouth compared to other sunfish species, more fusiform (streamlined) body shape, and aggressive predatory behavior.

These highly adaptable fish thrive in diverse Arkansas habitats from clear mountain streams to turbid lowland waters.

Scientific Name: Lepomis cyanellus

Also known as Rice Field Slicks

Physical Characteristics:
  • Blue-green coloring on their back and sides with yellow-flecked scales, broken bright blue stripes on gill covers and head sides, and dark spots near the dorsal and anal fins.
  • They typically reach 3-7 inches but can grow up to 12 inches and weigh up to 2.1 pounds.
  • Larger mouth compared to other sunfish species, more fusiform (streamlined) body shape.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Widely distributed throughout the state's lakes, streams, and ponds.
  • Particularly abundant in smaller streams, ponds, and backwater areas where other sunfish are less common.

Key Locations

  • Arkansas's tailwater systems.

Specific Spots

  • Shallow areas with cover including weed lines, brush piles, submerged timber, rocky shorelines, cut banks, and overhanging vegetation.
  • Commonly found in the backs of coves, creek channels, and protected shoreline areas.
  • Prefer shallow areas with cover like brushy banks, submerged logs, rocks, and vegetation.

Green Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Green Sunfish in Arkansas?

Small spinners (1/24 to 1/8 ounce in white, chartreuse, pink, or orange), 1.5-3 inch tubes and curly tail grubs in green, brown, black, white, or orange on 1/32 to 1/16 ounce jigheads, small swimbaits, inline spinners like Rooster Tails, small topwater presentations.

When is the best time to fish for Green Sunfish in Arkansas?

Can be caught year-round in Arkansas, but fishing is most productive from April through October. Spring is particularly excellent as they move into shallow spawning areas.

How do you catch Green Sunfish in Arkansas?

Fish under bobbers, light Carolina rigs, drift fishing in tailwater systems when water levels fluctuate. Move small poppers just enough to make legs wiggle.

What do Green Sunfish eat?

Aggressive predators feeding on insects, crayfish, small fish, fish e.g.gs, snails, mollusks, and zooplankton. Young fish primarily consume zooplankton and insect larvae, while adults are highly predaceous and will compete directly with other fish species.

Where do Green Sunfish live in Arkansas?

Widely distributed throughout the state's lakes, streams, and ponds. Particularly abundant in smaller streams, ponds, and backwater areas where other sunfish are less common.

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