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Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish

The Redear Sunfish, commonly called 'shellcracker,' is native to Missouri, originally found only in the southern third of the state but now distributed statewide through intentional stocking and accidental introduction.

Scientific Name: Lepomis microlophus

Also known as shellcracker

Physical Characteristics:
  • These distinctive sunfish are recognized by their cherry-red edge on the operculum (gill cover) in males, with females showing orange coloration in this area.
  • They're dark-colored dorsally, yellow-green ventrally, with faint vertical bars and can reach up to 10+ inches, making them larger than typical bluegill.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Prefer warm, clear waters with minimal current and abundant aquatic vegetation.
  • They thrive in lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and slow-moving rivers.

Key Locations

  • Various lakes, ponds, and reservoirs statewide, particularly those with good vegetation and clear water.

Specific Spots

  • Focus on clear waters with aquatic vegetation, particularly around submerged logs, stumps, brush piles, and areas with hard substrates where snails and mollusks are abundant.
  • Target drop-offs, brush piles, and vegetated areas.
  • Fish deeper waters during non-spawning periods.
  • Often spawn in depths of 3-6 feet.

Redear Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small jigs with 1/16-ounce heads and No. 6 or No. 8 hooks, paired with plastics like Panfish Magnets, Charlie Brewer 1-inch Slider Grubs, Z-Man Micro Finesse TRD, or hand-tied buggy patterns with rubber legs. Red worms and nightcrawlers are highly effective.

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

Prime time is during spawning season in May and June. Early morning and evening can be productive.

How do you catch Redear Sunfish in Missouri?

Effective techniques include using small jigs with subtle presentations near or on the bottom. For bait fishing, fish on the bottom around spawning beds. For fly fishing, allow flies to sink 5-10 seconds before slow retrieval. Focus on areas where muddy circles appear along shorelines, indicating active spawning beds.

What do Redear Sunfish eat?

Their specialized diet centers on snails and other mollusks, which they crack with powerful pharyngeal teeth. They also consume midge larvae, ostracods, fingernail clams, small crustaceans, aquatic insect larvae, and occasionally small fish.

Where do Redear Sunfish live in Missouri?

Prefer warm, clear waters with minimal current and abundant aquatic vegetation. They thrive in lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and slow-moving rivers.

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