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Bluegill Sunfish

Bluegill Sunfish

Bluegill sunfish are not native to Wyoming, as they are naturally found east of the Rocky Mountains with their historic range extending from the St. Lawrence-Great Lakes region south to the Gulf Coast.

However, bluegill have been introduced to Wyoming waters through stocking programs and are now found in select warm-water locations throughout the state.

Scientific Name: Lepomis macrochirus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These deep-bodied, laterally compressed fish are easily identified by their distinctive dark 'ear' flap on the gill plate, spiny and soft dorsal fins that are well connected, and smaller mouth that doesn't extend to the middle of the eye (distinguishing them from green sunfish).

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Select warm-water locations throughout the state.
  • The Wyoming Game and Fish Department's fishing guide specifically mentions that there are places in Wyoming where anglers can fish for warm-water species including largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie.

Key Locations

  • Wyoming's warm-water reservoirs and ponds, particularly those mentioned in the state fishing guide as supporting warm-water species.

Specific Spots

  • Target shallow areas with cover such as docks, fallen trees, weed beds, and protected coves, particularly looking for areas with hard substrates adjacent to deeper water.
  • They prefer slow-moving to stagnant water with abundant cover such as aquatic vegetation, rocky areas, or dense habitat.

Bluegill Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Bluegill Sunfish in Wyoming?

Red worms, nightcrawlers, crickets, wax worms, and small jigs tipped with bait or Berkley Crappie Nibbles for scent. Small lures like 1/32 ounce jigs with plastic spiders or grubs, tiny crankbaits, inline spinners, and small topwater lures work well.

What flies work for Bluegill Sunfish in Wyoming?

Small terrestrials like size 14-18 black ants, size 12-14 beetles, size 8-10 grasshoppers, foam spiders, small poppers, and beaded nymph patterns with legs that mimic bugs.

When is the best time to fish for Bluegill Sunfish in Wyoming?

Late spring through early fall when water temperatures are above 50°F, with peak activity occurring in water temperatures between 65-80°F. During winter, bluegill move to deeper water and become less active. Spawning season should be avoided for fishing to protect reproduction.

How do you catch Bluegill Sunfish in Wyoming?

Present baits slowly and quietly, as bluegill can be easily spooked. During winter, bluegill can still be caught with patience using smaller presentations fished slowly.

What do Bluegill Sunfish eat?

Bluegill are opportunistic feeders with excellent eyesight, feeding primarily during daylight hours on aquatic and terrestrial insects, zooplankton, small crustaceans, fish e.g.gs, small baitfish, and even aquatic vegetation when other food is scarce.

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