Redear sunfish can be found in ponds, lakes, and streams in the United States, particularly in the southeastern US. They are most commonly found in warmwater systems and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They can also be found in farm ponds, lakes, and reservoirs. Redear sunfish are also stocked in some areas for recreational fishing.
How do you catch redear?
Redear can be caught using a variety of techniques, including bobber fishing, jigging, and casting. When bobber fishing, use a small float with a live bait, such as worms or crickets, at the end of the line. For jigging, use a light jig head and soft plastic bait to bounce off the bottom. When casting, use a lightweight lure such as a jig or spinnerbait. Additionally, it can be helpful to use a slightly heavier weight than normal, as redear tend to prefer deeper waters.
Where can I find redear sunfish?
Redear sunfish can typically be found in vegetated littoral zones of small to large lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and slow-moving streams. They prefer cleaner water than other sunfish and quieter waters that have an abundance of submerged vegetation. Redears can also be found in shallow water around aquatic vegetation, logs, and other structure.
What kind of fish is a redear?
The redear sunfish (Lepomis microlophus) is a freshwater fish native to the southeastern United States. It is a member of the sunfish family, which also includes bluegill, largemouth bass, and other species. It is a deep-bodied, laterally compressed fish, with a small mouth, large eyes and a sharp, spiny dorsal fin. It is olive-green to brown in color, with a bright red or orange patch on the operculum (gill cover) and a black spot on the base of the pectoral fin. The redear sunfish is primarily a herbivore, feeding on aquatic plants, insects and crustaceans. It is an important species for sport fishing and can be found in many lakes and ponds throughout the southeastern United States.
What is the best bait for redear?
The best bait for redear is earthworms, nightcrawlers, larvae baits, and crickets. Red worms and mealworms are also good options. Gulp! Alive! baits such as the 2-inch Fish Fry, 3-inch Leech, Maggot, and Angle Worm are also effective.