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Redbreast Sunfish

Redbreast Sunfish

Redbreast Sunfish are not native to Kentucky but have been introduced to the state as part of the Mississippi River basin expansion, with populations established as far north as Kentucky and Arkansas.

While not as abundant as other sunfish species like bluegill or redear, they can be found in Kentucky waters, particularly in rivers and streams with moderate flow.

Scientific Name: Lepomis auritus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These colorful panfish are distinguished by their long, narrow black opercular flap (ear flap) that extends well beyond other sunfish species, bright blue iridescent lines on the head and cheeks, and males displaying vibrant orange to red coloration on the breast and belly during breeding season.
  • They typically reach 4-11 inches in length, with occasional specimens up to 12 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They can be found in Kentucky waters, particularly in rivers and streams with moderate flow.
  • They prefer clear, flowing waters.
  • Unlike bluegills, they rarely inhabit still ponds, preferring rivers and streams with current.

Specific Spots

  • Look for them around submerged logs, laydown trees, rock formations, cypress trees, undercut banks, stumps, and overhanging vegetation where they both feed and find shelter.
  • They are often found near submerged logs, rocks, overhanging vegetation, stumps, and undercut banks where they find both cover and food sources.

Redbreast Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

For live bait, red worms, nightcrawlers, crickets, grasshoppers, waxworms, and mealworms are highly effective. Small jigs tipped with live bait. For artificial lures, try small spinners and tiny jigs in chartreuse, yellow, or black colors.

What flies work for Redbreast Sunfish in Kentucky?

Wet flies, spider patterns. Redbreast sunfish readily take flies and are popular with fly anglers, especially in winter when they're more aggressive than bluegills in cooler water.

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

Prime fishing from September through March. They spawn in spring when water temperatures reach 61-79°F, typically late spring to early summer. During spawning, avoid targeting these fish to allow successful reproduction.

How do you catch Redbreast Sunfish in Kentucky?

Present baits near the bottom using minimal weight. Small jigs tipped with live bait and fished under a bobber just above the bottom can be deadly, especially around laydown trees and cypress trees.

What do Redbreast Sunfish eat?

Redbreast sunfish are opportunistic feeders with a more varied diet than most sunfish, consuming aquatic insects (mayflies, dragonfly larvae, damselflies), terrestrial insects, small crayfish, snails, clams, small fish, and aquatic worms.

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