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Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish are non-native fish found in select waters throughout Nebraska. These sunfish grow larger and faster than bluegill, with adults averaging around 1 pound and capable of reaching over 2 pounds in Nebraska waters.

They are specialized bottom feeders with powerful pharyngeal teeth that allow them to crush shells, earning them the 'shellcracker' nickname.

This mollusk specialization makes them valuable for controlling snail populations that host fish parasites like yellow and black grubs.

Scientific Name: Lepomis microlophus

Also known as shellcrackers

Physical Characteristics:
  • They're distinguished by their flat, slab-sided bodies, small mouths, long pointed pectoral fins, and characteristic black gill cover tabs with red margins - males display bright red while females show orange coloration.
  • Adults averaging around 1 pound and capable of reaching over 2 pounds in Nebraska waters.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit warm, clear ponds and small reservoirs with abundant aquatic vegetation, preferring waters at least 2 meters deep.

Key Locations

  • Nebraska's select waters that hold redear sunfish include various pits and small reservoirs - focus on those with clear water and abundant vegetation.
  • The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission notes they're found in 'a few select waters throughout the state.'.

Specific Spots

  • Fish around hard surfaces like stumps, dock pilings, rocks, and submerged structure where their preferred mollusk prey lives.
  • Target the littoral zone around aquatic vegetation, but also explore deeper water during summer months.

Redear Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small live baits are most effective, particularly red wigglers, pieces of nightcrawler, crickets, and worms. Small jigs tipped with live bait work exceptionally well, especially hair jigs made with squirrel or arctic fox hair rather than feathers or marabou.

What flies work for Redear Sunfish in Nebraska?

Focus on bottom-oriented patterns like San Juan Worms, small nymphs, and flies that imitate snails or aquatic insects.

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

Peak fishing from late spring through early fall when they're most active. These warmwater fish have zero tolerance for cold conditions and rarely feed below 45°F, making them inactive during Nebraska winters.

How do you catch Redear Sunfish in Nebraska?

Fish slowly and methodically, as redear sunfish are less aggressive than other sunfish species and prefer deliberate presentations near the bottom where they feed. Present flies slowly near structure and vegetation where snails concentrate.

What do Redear Sunfish eat?

Their diet consists primarily of snails and mollusks, along with midge larvae, mayfly larvae, dragonfly/damselfly larvae, small crustaceans, and aquatic insects.

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