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Pumpkinseed

Pumpkinseed

Pumpkinseed are New Hampshire's most common native sunfish and are widespread and abundant throughout the state. These colorful panfish are excellent for introducing young children to fishing.

Scientific Name: Lepomis gibbosus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their bright red spot on the rear margin of the gill cover, long pointed pectoral fins, and striking coloration with dark green backs, rust-colored spots, bright orange bellies, and bluish-green streaks radiating from the mouth and eye.
  • Adults typically measure 6-10 inches in New Hampshire waters.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit both lacustrine and riverine environments, preferring shallow areas with aquatic vegetation along shorelines of lakes and ponds, as well as backwaters and deeper pools with little current in rivers and streams.

Key Locations

  • Nearly all lakes, ponds, and medium to large rivers throughout the state.
  • They're found in the Connecticut and Merrimack Rivers and their tributaries, as well as countless ponds and lakes across all regions from the Great North Woods to the Seacoast.

Specific Spots

  • Target vegetated shorelines, shallow protected areas, fallen trees, stumps, and structure in water less than 4 feet deep.

Pumpkinseed FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Pumpkinseed in New Hampshire?

Small jigs, live bait including earthworms, grubs, crickets, grasshoppers, pieces of crayfish, leeches, and minnows.

What flies work for Pumpkinseed in New Hampshire?

Small poppers (red/white, yellow/black, or black/white), woolly buggers, Prince nymphs, Pheasant Tail nymphs, Mickey Finns, Blacknose Dace streamers, rubber spiders, and dark nymphs in sizes 8-12.

When is the best time to fish for Pumpkinseed in New Hampshire?

Best fishing during pre-spawn (when water temperatures reach low 60s°F) and post-spawn periods. Avoid during spawning from late spring through early summer (May-August, peaking in June).

How do you catch Pumpkinseed in New Hampshire?

Best fishing occurs during pre-spawn (when water temperatures reach low 60s°F) and post-spawn periods, with early morning and evening hours most productive, though they can be caught throughout the day. Avoid targeting them during spawning period to protect the reproductive population.

What do Pumpkinseed eat?

Pumpkinseeds are omnivorous, feeding primarily on invertebrates attached to plants or on the bottom, with jaws adapted for crushing shells of snails and other hard-shelled prey.

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