How to Identify a Redear Sunfish (Lepomis microlophus)

• Body shape: A rounded body, with the head more pointed than other sunfish species.
• Ear flap color: A short, black ear flap with a red or orange spot and a light edge.
• Jaw length: The mouth points slightly downward.
• Pectoral fin: Long, pointed pectoral fins that reach in front of the eyes when pushed forward — the longest pectoral fins of any sunfish.
• Body markings: The back and sides are yellow-green or gold with dark blotches; the belly is light yellow to yellow-orange.

The pumpkinseed has thin, wavy lines on the rear of the dorsal and anal fins, a feature the redear sunfish lacks. See the Pumpkinseed Sunfish page for its full mark list.

The redear's ear flap has a red or orange edge, while the bluegill's ear flap is all black with no red edge. See the Bluegill page for its full mark list.

A freshwater fish that lives in ponds, swamps, lakes, and rivers, particularly areas with abundant plants and/or little current. Native to the Mississippi and Gulf Slope drainages, from Iowa and Indiana to the Nueces River, Texas.

Lay the fish flat on its side in even light and photograph the whole body first, then the details below. Get a close, sharp frame of the head: mouth, jaw length and any barbels. Photograph the gill cover and cheek straight on so the ear flap and scale rows are visible. Shoot the side of the body before the fish dries; spots and stripes fade fast out of water. The app reads the photo and names the likely species; use the marks on this page to confirm it.

Size and daily limits for this species differ by state and by water, and some waters are catch-and-release only. Check the current regulations for where you are fishing before keeping any fish; if you are unsure of the species, release it.