Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) — identification, habitat & look-alikes

Bluegill are freshwater fish found across the United States and a familiar first catch for many anglers. Look for the dark ear flap, small mouth, and dark spot near the back of the . In parts of the South, they are also called bream.

Appearance

Appearance: A bluegill has a deep, flattened body, faint vertical bars, a small mouth, and a dark ear flap. Breeding males can show stronger blue and orange colors.

Look-alikes

Green SunfishLepomis cyanellus

A green sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus) has a noticeably larger mouth and a longer body. A bluegill has a smaller mouth and a dark spot at the back of its dorsal fin.

Why they get mixed upBoth are common sunfish in Texas ponds.

Where it lives

Typical habitats: Lakes
Ponds
Slow streams
Range: Bluegill are native to much of eastern and central North America. Stocking has spread them across the United States, including California.
Preferred conditions: They use shallow water with plants or other cover.
When it’s recorded: Recorded year-round, every year · most records in May–Jul
34,715 observations in the US · 10 years · for referenceChoose a state

Behavior

Diet: In U.S. waters they eat aquatic insects and other small animals, including snails and tiny .

Life cycle

Breeding season: In Texas, spawning usually begins around 70°F (21°C), peaks in May or June, and may continue into fall.
Nest: Males fan shallow nests in gravel, often close to other males, and guard the eggs.

Name and classification

About the name: In Texas, Coppernose Bluegill has been widely introduced for sport fishing and as food for other fish. Northern and Southwestern Bluegill are other named .

Conservation

IUCN Red List: LCLeast ConcernLow risk of extinction

Culture and stories

Culture and stories: Bluegill are a common bank fishing catch in Texas.
Texas anglers also use the name brim.

15 sources