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Redbreast Sunfish

Redbreast Sunfish

Redbreast Sunfish in Tennessee are a non-native species that was introduced to the Tennessee River drainage in the early 1940s through intentional stocking.

They are now established throughout much of eastern and middle Tennessee, particularly in the Tennessee River system. These colorful panfish are opportunistic feeders and one of the few sunfish that will feed actively at night.

Scientific Name: Lepomis auritus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished by their long, narrow black opercular ear flap bordered by blue lines, bright orange-red breast (especially pronounced in breeding males), and wavy blue lines on the cheek and head.
  • They typically measure 2-9 inches with an average of 4-6 inches, though specimens up to 12 inches are possible.
  • The Tennessee state record is 1 pound, 5 ounces from the Holston River.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Established throughout much of eastern and middle Tennessee, particularly in the Tennessee River system.

Key Locations

  • Prime locations include the Tennessee River system, particularly around Chickamauga Lake, and tributary streams throughout eastern Tennessee.

Specific Spots

  • Prefer flowing water environments - streams, rivers, and upstream reaches of reservoirs with rocky substrates, sandy bottoms, woody debris, and undercut banks.
  • They avoid heavily vegetated or stagnant areas.

Redbreast Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Redbreast Sunfish in Tennessee?

Small jigs (1/64-1/16 oz), tiny spinners, and small crankbaits. Live bait options include crickets, small earthworms, wax worms, and small minnows - avoid large nightcrawlers as redbreasts can be selective.

What flies work for Redbreast Sunfish in Tennessee?

Bett's Bream Madness in chartreuse, Frenchie Egan's, Zebra Midges (black and red), small poppers, and spider patterns. The Bully Bluegill in chartreuse is particularly effective, with its rubber legs providing excellent action when pulsed.

When is the best time to fish for Redbreast Sunfish in Tennessee?

The best fishing occurs from late spring through early fall, with peak action during summer months when water temperatures are in the 70s-80s. During summer heat, fish deeper water or night hours for best success.

How do you catch Redbreast Sunfish in Tennessee?

Fish with subtle presentations. Try jigging around root balls and deep holes, letting lures settle between pulses. In streams, cast with the current and work flies naturally downstream.

What do Redbreast Sunfish eat?

Their diet is more varied than other sunfish, consisting primarily of aquatic insects (mayflies, dragonflies, caddisflies), terrestrial insects, small crayfish, snails, clams, and occasionally small fish.

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