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Longear Sunfish

Longear Sunfish

Longear Sunfish are not native to South Carolina but have been introduced as nonindigenous populations, with documented occurrences recorded by the USGS.

These colorful sunfish are most active during daylight hours and perform better at foraging in moving waters than still waters.

Scientific Name: Lepomis megalotis

Physical Characteristics:

These colorful sunfish reach maximum lengths of about 24 cm (9. 4 inches) and weights up to 790g (1. 74 pounds), though most specimens are much smaller.

They're distinguished by their elongated black operculum flap (ear flap) that gives them their name, along with bright orange bellies and blue-green vermiculate bars on their heads, particularly pronounced in breeding males.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Longear Sunfish prefer densely vegetated shallow waters in lakes, ponds, and sluggish streams with firm clay or gravel bottoms and clear water. They prefer clear, well-vegetated streams and lakes.

Specific Spots

Focus on shallow, vegetated areas near root wads, downed trees, eddies, long slow-moving pools, bridge pilings, and weed-lined shorelines. Fish near aquatic vegetation, brush piles, undercut banks, and other cover where they hide from predators.

Longear Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Microjigs from 1/100th to 1/64th ounce on #10 hooks - color doesn't seem to matter.

What flies work for Longear Sunfish in South Carolina?

Small flies in sizes #8-#12 work best due to their relatively small mouths, with #10-#12 being optimal. Effective fly patterns include small poppers, foam ants, micro Chubby Chernobyls with rubber legs, pheasant tail nymphs, midges, small woolly buggers, Pat's rubber legs stonefly patterns, and small marabou jigs.

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

Target from mid-Spring through mid-Fall when they're most active, with peak action during warm summer months. They spawn from late May through late August when water temperatures reach 70-80°F.

How do you catch Longear Sunfish in South Carolina?

Present flies with minimal action - just enough movement to make rubber legs wiggle on surface patterns. Use slow retrieves with streamers and nymphs, adding short twitches every 5-10 seconds to draw attention.

What do Longear Sunfish eat?

They feed extensively near the surface, with adult diets consisting of terrestrial insects (37%), fish (31%), aquatic insects (21%), and fish eggs (7%). They also consume dragonflies, gnat larvae, snails, leeches, small crustaceans, and detritus.

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