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Redbreast Sunfish

Redbreast Sunfish

Redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus) are one of Georgia's principal game species, found in all drainage systems throughout the state. These vibrant panfish are among the most colorful sunfish species.

Scientific Name: Lepomis auritus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Males displaying bright orange to red breasts and bellies during breeding season, while females show pale red or yellowish coloration.
  • They're distinguished by their long, dark opercular ear flaps - the most reliable identifying feature that sets them apart from other sunfish.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Redbreast sunfish prefer flowing water environments - streams, rivers, and creeks rather than ponds or large lakes.
  • They inhabit sand-bottom areas, rocky sections of coastal-plain waters, and areas with limestone outcroppings, logs, aquatic vegetation, and undercut tree roots.

Key Locations

  • Prime Georgia waters include the Satilla River (where the state record was caught), Altamaha River, Oconee River, Flint River, plus smaller waterways like the Ohoopee River, Little River, and Canoochee River.
  • The Satilla River system has produced exceptional fish.
  • On the Flint River, fish areas like Sprewell Bluff Park and Montezuma Bluffs Wildlife Management Area.
  • The Altamaha River offers excellent opportunities at access points like Jaycee Landing, Williamsburg Landing, and Deen's Landing.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas with current breaks around submerged trees, boulders, and limestone outcroppings in rivers.
  • Focus on sand, gravel, or rocky bottoms with flowing water.
  • Target areas with fallen trees, stumps, and logs.

Redbreast Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Live baits are most effective, particularly small earthworms, redworms, crickets, grasshoppers, and small leeches (under 1 inch). When using leeches, they stay hooked longer and deter smaller fish while attracting larger specimens. For artificial lures, small spinners, jigs, beetle spins, and small spinners work well.

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

The best fishing occurs from late summer through early spring, avoiding the May-August spawning period.

How do you catch Redbreast Sunfish in Georgia?

Unlike other sunfish, redbreast rarely chase moving lures - instead, jig the lure then let it sit still to trigger strikes. Fish depths between 6 inches and 6 feet, varying rod position to find the most productive zone.

What do Redbreast Sunfish eat?

Their diet is more varied than other sunfishes, consisting primarily of terrestrial and aquatic insects, particularly dipterans, ephemeropterans, and trichopterans, plus small fish, crayfish, snails, insect larvae, and mollusks.

Where do Redbreast Sunfish live in Georgia?

Redbreast sunfish prefer flowing water environments - streams, rivers, and creeks rather than ponds or large lakes. They inhabit sand-bottom areas, rocky sections of coastal-plain waters, and areas with limestone outcroppings, logs, aquatic vegetation, and undercut tree roots.

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