Scientific Name
Lepomis gibbosus
Image Credit
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Length
18-23 centimetres (7-9 inches)
Weight
0.2 kilograms (0.4 pounds)
Similar Species
Location
widespread and abundant, north to Lake Temagami
Description
- small, very deep-bodied fish
- wavy, blue-green stripes on sides of head
- ear flap with orange or red spot
- unnotched dorsal fin with 10 to 11 spines
- 3 anal fin spines
- small mouth does not extend to below the middle of the eye
Habitat
- cool to warm waters of lakes
- slow-moving streams with aquatic vegetation
Angling Tips
- small, easy-to-catch member of the sunfish family
- easily caught from shore and provide excellent action for children
- aggressive feeders, take bait readily and fight well on light tackle
- small fish form large, loose schools in shallow water near weeds, docks, bridges
- bigger fish are more solitary, occasionally collecting in small groups
- light line and small hooks work best
- try dangling live bait from a small bobber, fly-fishing, casting small lures, slow-trolling, drifting
Common Bait
- small plugs, spinners, jigs
- worms, insects and other live bait
- add natural bait to an artificial lure to make it more appealing