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Green Sunfish

Green Sunfish

Green Sunfish are an introduced species in Maryland's Chesapeake Bay tributaries, first recorded in the tidal Potomac River in 1900. By 1911, they were abundant near Chain Bridge at the head of tide.

Today, they're established in Maryland waters including the Potomac River system, Susquehanna River drainage (common below Conowingo Dam since the 1970s), and various tributaries of the Severn and Rhode Rivers.

The Maryland Biological Stream Survey has documented Green Sunfish presence across the state, noting they're tolerant of low pH streams (lowest recorded at pH 7. 1).

Scientific Name: Lepomis cyanellus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These aggressive panfish have bass-like rectangular bodies with large mouths extending to the midpoint of their eyes, distinguished from other sunfish by their blue-green coloration with yellow flecks, dark spots on posterior dorsal and anal fins, and black ear flaps with white margins.
  • They typically measure 6-8 inches in Maryland waters, though hybrids with bluegill can reach impressive sizes - a 13-inch, 2.25-pound hybrid was caught in Carroll County.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They're established in Maryland waters and adaptable to various habitats from clear to turbid water, tolerant of low pH streams (lowest recorded at pH 7.1).

Key Locations

  • In Maryland, productive waters include small ponds throughout the state, backwaters of the Potomac River system, and tributary areas of the Chesapeake Bay region.
  • Potomac River system, Susquehanna River drainage (common below Conowingo Dam since the 1970s), and various tributaries of the Severn and Rhode Rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Target them in shallow areas with structure like docks, fallen trees, rocky shorelines, and vegetated edges.
  • They prefer warm shallow areas with cover like vegetation, logs, or rocky structure.

Green Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Hair jigs in 1/32 to 1/64 ounce work exceptionally well, particularly natural brown and green combinations or black and silver. Small spinners like 1/8 ounce gold Kast Master spoons can be deadly. Live bait options include crickets, worms, nightcrawlers, waxworms, and small minnows.

What flies work for Green Sunfish in Maryland?

Effective patterns include size 10-18 woolly buggers (black, olive, or white), elk hair caddis, parachute Adams, small poppers, and damselfly patterns with blue coloration.

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

Green Sunfish fishing peaks during spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) when water temperatures are optimal and fish are most active. Fish early morning and late evening during summer months, and focus on warmer parts of the day in fall and winter.

How do you catch Green Sunfish in Maryland?

Use slow presentations - let flies or lures sit motionless briefly before giving subtle twitches, as Green Sunfish lose interest with excessive action. Fish live bait under a small bobber. In winter, use patient jigging in 10-20 foot depths.

What do Green Sunfish eat?

Green Sunfish are highly predaceous omnivores feeding on aquatic insects, crayfish, small fish, zooplankton, and fish e.g.gs.

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