Bluegill

Lepomis macrochirus

The Bluegill has the unenviable distinction of being stocked to serve as food for larger fishes. Widely distributed, this excellent sport and food fish is popular throughout its range as a panfish (a small fish that is easily caught and fried whole in a pan). It is a member of the spiny-rayed sunfish and bass family (Centrarchidae) and has a continuous dorsal fin and a heavy, oval-shaped body that is very compressed.

Look For : A small sunfish with a deep, compressed body. Dark spot on back of dorsal fin. Black, flexible flap on gill cover.

Length : 13".

Habitat : Lakes, ponds, slower parts of freshwater streams.

Range : Introduced throughout U.S., southern Canada.