The longear sunfish is one of the commonly sought after members of the sunfish family. Their wide distribution and good eating account for their great popularity.
Adults are dark red above, bright orange below, marbled and spotted with blue. Distinct features include a prominently long ear flap that is horizontal in position, especially on adult males.
They live in all rivers and streams and are widespread in their range throughout the eastern and central U.S. Their preferred habitat is submerged vegetation, brush and sandbars on gradually sloping shorelines.
They are commonly caught on rod and reel, fly rods and cane poles. Longear sunfish can be caught on a wide range of artificial and natural baits including beetlespins, popping bugs, wet and dry flies, small jigs, earthworms, mealworms, crickets and grubs. Small diameter fishing line and small hooks will undoubtedly yield the most success.