The flier is a species of sunfish which establishes fishable population in the coastal plain section of South Carolina. It has the most dorsal fin spines, usually 11-13, of any sunfish.
Range: Predominantly found in the coastal plain of South Carolina; however, there are records of the flier in tributaries of the Broad, Saluda and Savannah rivers.
Commonly Mistaken Species: Some species of fish that are commonly mistaken for this species: Black crappie White crappie
Habitat & Range
The flier is commonly found in the warm and heavily vegetated waters of the coastal plain in swamps, creeks, ponds, backwaters, sloughs, roadside drainage ditches and low flowing streams.
Life History
Spawning: - Spawning for fliers begins earlier than most sunfish around March to May when water temperatures are reaching 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The males build and defend the nests which are often in groups.
- The females deposit 20,000-35,000 eggs in the nests.
Diet: - Small aquatic insects and small fishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
5 inches 3 ounces
Lifespan
: Approximately 8 years
State Record
: 1 pound 4 ounces (1977)
