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Flier

Flier

The Flier is a native sunfish species found predominantly in South Carolina's coastal plain, with some records in tributaries of the Broad, Saluda and Savannah rivers.

The flier establishes fishable populations throughout South Carolina's coastal plain region and is classified as a freshwater game fish under state regulations, grouped with other bream species including bluegill, warmouth, and spotted sunfish.

Scientific Name: Centrarchus macropterus

Physical Characteristics:
  • This distinctive sunfish has an almost circular body with olive green to silver coloration and interrupted rows of black spots along the sides.
  • A key identifying feature is the large black teardrop-shaped marking below the eye, and young fliers display a dark spot outlined in orange on the dorsal fin that fades with age.
  • The flier has the most dorsal fin spines (11-13) of any sunfish species.
  • Adults average 5 inches in length and 3 ounces in weight, with the South Carolina state record at 1 pound 4 ounces (1977).

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Fliers inhabit warm, heavily vegetated waters of the coastal plain including swamps, creeks, ponds, backwaters, sloughs, roadside drainage ditches and low-flowing streams.

Key Locations

  • South Carolina's coastal plain, with some records in tributaries of the Broad, Saluda and Savannah rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas including swamps, oxbow lakes, slow-moving creeks, backwaters, and well-vegetated ponds and drainage ditches.
  • Focus on areas with abundant aquatic vegetation, submerged logs, and woody debris where fliers seek shelter when alarmed.
  • Concentrate efforts in the quieter backwaters and heavily vegetated sections of coastal plain waters rather than swift-flowing streams.

Flier FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Flier in South Carolina?

Effective baits include live worms, small insects, and leeches. Small jigs and spinners work well for artificial presentations.

When is the best time to fish for Flier in South Carolina?

Fliers can be caught year-round in South Carolina. Fliers spawn in spring when water temperatures reach the mid-60s°F, typically March through May - avoid targeting spawning fish during this period and focus on post-spawn fishing.

How do you catch Flier in South Carolina?

Standard sunfish techniques. The species responds well to typical bream fishing techniques. Match your bait to their opportunistic feeding habits.

What do Flier eat?

They're opportunistic feeders consuming insects, snails, worms, leeches, small fish, and terrestrial bugs.

Where do Flier live in South Carolina?

Fliers inhabit warm, heavily vegetated waters of the coastal plain including swamps, creeks, ponds, backwaters, sloughs, roadside drainage ditches and low-flowing streams.

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