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Redbreast Sunfish

Redbreast Sunfish

Redbreast Sunfish (Lepomis auritus) are an introduced, non-native species in Texas that have established populations throughout eastern and southern parts of the state, extending as far west as Independence Creek in the Pecos Drainage.

They've been present in Texas since the late 1960s.

Scientific Name: Lepomis auritus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These sunfish are characterized by their long, dark, flexible opercular 'ear' flap that's entirely black and narrower than the eye diameter - their most distinguishing feature from other sunfish.
  • Males display bright orange to red coloration on the breast and belly, especially during breeding season, while females show more yellow tones.
  • They have shorter, rounded pectoral fins compared to bluegill and typically grow 8-12 inches.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Established populations throughout eastern and southern parts of the state, extending as far west as Independence Creek in the Pecos Dr.ainage.

Key Locations

  • They're found particularly around San Marcos.
  • Target rivers like the San Marcos, Guadalupe, Comal, and San Gabriel rivers.

Specific Spots

  • Target deeper pools with current, structure like fallen trees, limestone outcroppings, undercut banks, and areas with moderate vegetation.
  • Fish around weed edges ranging from 5-15 feet deep, and focus on shadowed areas near structure.
  • They inhabit deeper pools with structure like fallen trees, limestone outcroppings, undercut banks, and aquatic vegetation.

Redbreast Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Productive lures include 1/80 oz painted jigheads with jig flies, small spinners, 1/16 to 1/8 ounce jigs, and small soft plastics. Live bait works exceptionally well - nightcrawlers, red worms, crickets, grasshoppers, and waxworms are top choices.

What flies work for Redbreast Sunfish in Texas?

Effective patterns including Pat's Hot Tail Mini-Craw, Rio Poquito, Deer Hair Ants, Woolly Buggers, Foxy Clousers, Mini-Minnows, small nymphs, terrestrials, and topwater poppers. Successful flies range from size #10-18, with buggy-looking patterns being particularly effective.

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

Spring through early fall, particularly April through August, avoiding the May-August spawning period.

How do you catch Redbreast Sunfish in Texas?

Still fishing, jigging, and light tackle baitcasting, with flies allowed to sink slowly for best results. They respond well to fly fishing.

What do Redbreast Sunfish eat?

Their diet is more varied than most sunfish, including terrestrial and aquatic insects (mayflies, dragonflies, crayfish), small fish, snails, clams, and invertebrates. They're opportunistic feeders and notably one of the few sunfish species that feeds at night.

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