Redbreast Sunfish
Redbreast Sunfish (Lepomis auritus) in Vermont are non-native panfish that have been introduced outside their native Atlantic coast range.
They're part of the broader panfish family that includes bluegill, pumpkinseed, rock bass, and crappie found throughout Vermont's waters.
Scientific Name: Lepomis auritus
These colorful sunfish are distinguished by their long, narrow black ear flap (opercular flap) that extends beyond other sunfish species, and breeding males display brilliant orange-red coloration on their breast and belly.
Fishing in Vermont
Lake Champlain
Winooski River
Lamoille River
Otter Creek
Boquet River
Saranac River
Lake George
New Haven River
Schroon River
Hudson River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
Redbreast sunfish prefer moving water environments and are typically found in streams, rivers, and rocky or sandy bottom areas with current, unlike other sunfish that favor still waters.Key Locations
Vermont waters likely to hold them include rivers and streams with rocky or sandy bottoms and good current flowSpecific Spots
Target structure including submerged logs, rocks, undercut banks, limestone outcroppings, and aquatic vegetation in 6 inches to 6 feet of water, particularly areas with natural cover and structure.Redbreast Sunfish FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What flies work for Redbreast Sunfish in Vermont?
Small poppers like Foam Ants or Micro Chubby Chernobyls, small nymphs, Prince flies, Pheasant Tail nymphs, Wooly Buggers, and terrestrial imitations
When is the best time to fish for Redbreast Sunfish in Vermont?
Late spring through early fall, avoiding the spawning period from late May through August
How do you catch Redbreast Sunfish in Vermont?
Fish slowly, redbreast sunfish rarely hit moving lures, so jig your offering then let it sit still to trigger strikes. For fly fishing, use minimal action, just enough movement to make the rubber legs wiggle.
What do Redbreast Sunfish eat?
They have the most varied diet of all sunfish species, feeding on aquatic insects (particularly mayflies and dragonflies), terrestrial insects, small crayfish, snails, clams, small fish, and benthic organisms.
Where do Redbreast Sunfish live in Vermont?
Redbreast sunfish prefer moving water environments and are typically found in streams, rivers, and rocky or sandy bottom areas with current, unlike other sunfish that favor still waters.
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