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Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish

Redear Sunfish are one of Texas's premier panfish species and the largest member of the Lepomis genus. Native to the southeastern United States, their natural Texas range extends through the eastern two-thirds of the state, south to the Rio Grande drainage.

Scientific Name: Lepomis microlophus

Also known as shellcrackers

Physical Characteristics:
  • They're distinguished by their characteristic red or orange opercular flap (ear tab) that gives them their name, with males displaying brighter red coloration and females showing more orange hues.
  • These deep-bodied fish typically average 6-10 inches and weigh around 0.45 kg, though they can reach impressive sizes - the current world record stands at 6 pounds, 4 ounces.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Their natural Texas range extends through the eastern two-thirds of the state, south to the Rio Grande drainage.
  • They prefer deeper water, typically 2+ meters deep.
  • More tolerant of salinity than other sunfish, sometimes found in brackish coastal areas.

Key Locations

  • Focus on Texas waters like Toledo Bend Reservoir, Lake Conroe, Caddo Lake, Lady Bird Lake, and Calaveras Lake - all proven producers of trophy-sized redears.
  • In rivers like the Guadalupe and San Marcos, focus on deep pools and eddies away from current.

Specific Spots

  • Target deeper water than you would for bluegill, fishing 5-15 feet deep around vegetation edges, stumps, rocks, and structure.
  • Target areas with hard substrates adjacent to vegetation, particularly around cypress trees, fallen logs, and rocky areas.

Redear Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Live bait is most effective - nightcrawlers, red worms, crickets, and grass shrimp are top choices. For artificial lures, small jigs (1/16-1/8 oz) tipped with worms work well, as do tiny soft plastics and micro crankbaits.

What flies work for Redear Sunfish in Texas?

Effective fly patterns include woolly buggers, small streamers, nymphs, and bottom-bouncing patterns in sizes #6-12.

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

April through September when they're most active, with peak fishing during the pre-spawn period in April-May and again in fall.

How do you catch Redear Sunfish in Texas?

Since redears are bottom-oriented, use techniques that get bait to the bottom. Fish with Carolina rigs or split-shot rigs to keep bait near bottom. Add split shot or use bead-head flies to reach bottom quickly.

What do Redear Sunfish eat?

Redear sunfish are specialized molluscivores with thick pharyngeal teeth that allow them to crack shells. They primarily feed on snails, mussels, ostracods, and other hard-shelled prey. They also consume aquatic insects, small fish, crayfish, and zooplankton. Unlike other sunfish, redears are primarily bottom feeders.

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