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Green Sunfish

Green Sunfish

Green Sunfish are an introduced, non-native species in Wyoming that have become established in various water bodies across the state.

These hardy fish tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions including turbid water, temperature fluctuations, and poor water quality, making them well-suited to Wyoming's variable climate.

Scientific Name: Lepomis cyanellus

Physical Characteristics:
  • These aggressive freshwater fish typically measure 3-7 inches in length, though they can reach up to 12 inches.
  • They're characterized by their blue-green coloration with yellow-flecked scales, dark spots on the dorsal and anal fins, and a relatively large mouth compared to other sunfish species.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They prefer sluggish backwaters, lakes, and ponds with gravel, sand, or bedrock bottoms.

Key Locations

  • Sloan's Lake and North Crow Reservoir near Cheyenne, as well as in Keyhole Reservoir.

Specific Spots

  • Target areas with structure like weedy edges of lakes, docks, fallen trees, stumps, rocky areas, and vegetated shorelines.
  • Often hiding around rocks, submerged logs, and vegetation.

Green Sunfish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

For live bait, use nightcrawlers, waxworms, mealworms, bloodworms, crickets, or small minnows. Grocery store options like pieces of hot dog or corn kernels can also be effective.

What flies work for Green Sunfish in Wyoming?

Fly fishing can be productive using dry flies when wind is calm, particularly small patterns that imitate insects.

How do you catch Green Sunfish in Wyoming?

Fish near the bottom in deeper water, and try counting down lures to find the right depth. At waters like Sloan's Lake near Cheyenne, fish worms or spinners near shorelines for consistent action.

What do Green Sunfish eat?

Green Sunfish are opportunistic omnivores with a diet including aquatic insects, larvae, crayfish, snails, small fish, fish e.g.gs, zooplankton, and occasionally plant material.

Where do Green Sunfish live in Wyoming?

They prefer sluggish backwaters, lakes, and ponds with gravel, sand, or bedrock bottoms.

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Wyoming licenses and regulations

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