Species guide

How to catch Redbreast sunfish

Lepomis auritus

Stylized 2D illustration of Redbreast sunfish
freshwatergame fishCentrarchidae

The Redbreast sunfish is a vibrant freshwater fish known for its deep, compressed body and red-orange breast. It is popular among anglers for its feisty fight and can be found in various North American and European waters. This species thrives in rocky and vegetated areas of creeks, rivers, and lake margins.

Where they live

Prefers rocky and sandy pools in creeks and small to medium rivers as well as vegetated, rocky lake margins in North America and Europe.

Typical size

Up to about 31 cm

What they eat

  • small fish
  • winged insects
  • crustaceans
  • snails
  • beetles
  • flies
  • mayflies

Best baits

  • worms
  • crickets
  • small minnows
  • insect larvae

Best lures

  • small jigs
  • soft plastic grubs
  • spinnerbaits
  • tiny crankbaits

How to fish for them

  • light spinning tackle
  • fly fishing
  • bobber and bait
  • ultralight casting

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How to catch Redbreast sunfish | Bobbr