Lepomis machrochirus
Rafinesque, 1819

Bluegill

Above: A Bluegill. Photo by Sam Borstein.

Etymology:

Genus- Lepomis= scaled gill (Greek).
Species- machrochirus= hand (Greek), referring to the pectoral fins of the fish.

Intro:

The Bluegill, the state fish of many states is a classic, as it reminds you of fishing during your childhood. Everyone remembers the first time they went fishing with their dad, and caught their first fish, most likely a Bluegill.

Habitat:

Bluegills can be found anywhere, lakes, rivers, ponds, anywhere. This fish is not picky, but will spend time by weeds and sunken logs. They are found throughout the United States.

Spawning:

Bluegills spawn in mid-May to mid-June in shallow water nests they dig out.

Diet:

Bluegills are not picky eaters. They will eat insects, insect larvae, small fish, eggs, and veggie matter in the water.

Size:

Bluegills can get to 12 inches and 1 pound, but this rare because many populations are stunted because of high population. As a result of being stunted, the fish live shorter lives, and don't grow large.

Keeping In Aquaria:

Breeding has been achieved in an aquarium. This fish can easily be kept in a fish tank with minimal issues. The one downside to keeping this fish in captivity is they lose a lot of color.

Gaming Qualities:

This fish is fun to catch, especially on ultra-light. This fish is occasionally targeted by fly fisherman. It's also great on a hot day to just bobber fish for these guys.

Fishing Tips:

I use any rod when fishing for Bluegills. This fish can easily be caught on worms, wax worms, and flies.