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Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish are native to Georgia and are particularly abundant in the state's waters. Georgia is actually within the core of their native range, which extends from the Savannah River through Florida and west to Texas.

Scientific Name: Lepomis microlophus

Also known as shellcracker, Georgia bream

Physical Characteristics:
  • These fish are easily identified by their distinctive red or orange ear flap (hence the name) and are generally larger than bluegill, averaging 20-24cm in length but capable of reaching over 43cm.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit warm, quiet waters including lakes, ponds, streams, reservoirs, and freshwater marsh wetlands, preferring areas near logs and vegetation.
  • They're commonly found in deeper water than other sunfish species and are more tolerant of lower dissolved oxygen and higher salinity.

Key Locations

  • Major river systems and public fishing areas like Flat Creek PFA in Houston County.

Specific Spots

  • Target deeper water with hard substrates, areas around stumps, logs, and vegetation, and drop-offs near spawning areas (post-spawn).
  • In Georgia's public fishing areas, look for the submerged roads and structured areas.

Redear Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Nightcrawler worms, red wigglers, crickets, grass shrimp, and corn. Small jigs (1/8-1/4 oz) tipped with worms work exceptionally well, as do small spinners and Trout Magnet-style lures.

What flies work for Redear Sunfish in Georgia?

Small woolly buggers, leech patterns, and nymphs in sizes 8-12, with rubber legs adding movement to trigger strikes. Hair jigs tied with squirrel or arctic fox work better than feathered versions.

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

March through November, with peak action typically occurring in spring and fall. Avoid fishing below 45°F water temperatures since they're true warmwater fish with zero tolerance for cold water.

How do you catch Redear Sunfish in Georgia?

Bottom fishing techniques using sinkers to get baits down to their feeding zone. Present baits slowly - use a slow retrieve with pauses, allowing jigs to sink and giving slight twitches to activate rubber legs or soft materials.

What do Redear Sunfish eat?

They're primarily molluscivores with thick pharyngeal teeth that allow them to crack shells. They feed heavily on snails, mussels, ostracods, and other hard-shelled prey, though smaller fish also consume zooplankton, amphipods, and chironomid larvae.

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