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Green Sunfish

Green Sunfish

Green Sunfish are small, aggressive freshwater panfish found throughout Georgia's waters. They're highly adaptable and tolerant of various water conditions.

They're considered invasive in Georgia and can overpopulate, leading to stunted growth in small water bodies.

Scientific Name: Lepomis cyanellus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Characterized by a blue-green coloration with yellow flecks, a large mouth extending to the middle of the eye, and three distinctive dark spots - one on the posterior dorsal fin, one on the anal fin, and one on the ear plate.
  • Unlike other sunfish, they have a more bass-like, elongated body with short, rounded pectoral fins.
  • Green Sunfish typically range 3-7 inches in Georgia, though they can reach up to 12 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Thriving in sluggish backwaters, lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams throughout Georgia's waters.

Key Locations

  • Found in the Alapaha, Chattahoochee, Flint, Ocmulgee, Oconee, Savannah, and other river basins in Georgia.

Specific Spots

  • Target weedy areas, docks, fallen trees, stumps, rocky areas, and any structure providing cover.
  • Look for them in shallow, sunlit waters near vegetation with cover like vegetation, logs, and rocky structure.
  • In streams, focus on pools, eddies, and areas with low current.
  • They're often found in the same areas as bluegill and crappie.

Green Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Live bait: nightcrawlers, waxworms, mealworms, bloodworms, crickets, and small minnows. Artificial lures: small jigs (1/16 ounce), tiny spinners, Johnson Beetle spins, Rebel CrickHoppers, small plastic worms, and Crappie Magnets.

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

Year-round fishing with peak from late spring through early fall. Best fishing during late spring before spawning begins in May.

How do you catch Green Sunfish in Georgia?

Fish live bait under a small bobber or cork. A slow retrieve generally works better than fast presentations. Scout productive areas by walking pond edges and looking for 5-7 inch fish, then use bread or crackers to attract them before fishing.

What do Green Sunfish eat?

Opportunistic omnivores feeding on aquatic and terrestrial insects, crayfish, small fish, fish e.g.gs, zooplankton, and occasionally plant material. They're highly predaceous.

Where do Green Sunfish live in Georgia?

Thriving in sluggish backwaters, lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams throughout Georgia's waters.

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