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Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish (Lepomis microlophus), commonly known as shellcrackers, are a non-native panfish species successfully introduced to southern Michigan waters starting in the mid-1950s.

First appearing in Silver Lake, Branch County in 1947, they have since been stocked in 57 lakes primarily in Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

Scientific Name: Lepomis microlophus

Also known as shellcrackers

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their red or orange opercular flap margin, elongated pointed pectoral fins, and lack of conspicuous orange and blue streaks on their cheeks.
  • Michigan redear sunfish grow impressively, averaging 8.7 inches in mature populations with individuals exceeding 12 inches - significantly larger than native bluegill (6.6 inches) and pumpkinseed (6.5 inches).
  • The current Michigan state record is 12.75 inches and 1 pound 15.5 ounces.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Stocked in 57 lakes primarily in Michigan's Lower Peninsula.
  • Prefer warm, clear lakes with vegetated shallow areas.

Key Locations

  • Popular Michigan locations include lakes in Branch, Calhoun, Hardin, Jackson, Oakland, Hillsdale, and Washtenaw counties, with specific success noted at Wamplers Lake.
  • Silver Lake, Branch County.
  • Thompson Lake in St.
  • Joseph County.

Specific Spots

  • Found around brush, stumps, and logs.
  • Target areas with vegetation, logs, stumps, and structure where they congregate - look for hard surfaces and areas with snail populations.

Redear Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Live worms are the most preferred bait when fished on the bottom, gray crickets and wax worms fished at mid-depths, rubber spiders fished at the surface, various artificial lures, nightcrawler worms, corn, and leeches.

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

Late spring through early summer after spawning concludes. Avoid targeting them during their May-September spawning season when they're protecting nests in 2-4 feet of water.

How do you catch Redear Sunfish in Michigan?

Fish presentations near the lake bottom using sinkers to get baits down to their feeding zone. For fly fishing, use heavy-weighted flies or sinking fly lines.

What do Redear Sunfish eat?

Their diet consists primarily of snails (earning the 'shellcracker' nickname), midge larvae, mayfly larvae, dragonfly larvae, small clams, and potentially zebra mussels. They possess specialized pharyngeal teeth for crushing shells and are primarily bottom feeders.

Where do Redear Sunfish live in Michigan?

Stocked in 57 lakes primarily in Michigan's Lower Peninsula. Prefer warm, clear lakes with vegetated shallow areas.

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