The popularity afforded to South Carolina's low country blackwater rivers can be attributed to the redbreast sunfish fishery they support.
Range: Statewide
Commonly Mistaken Species: Some species of fish that are commonly mistaken for this species:
Bluegill Dollar Sunfish Pumpkinseed Redear sunfish
Habitat & Range
The redbreast sunfish can be found areas with slow-moving or sluggish water such as pools and backwaters of streams and rivers and upstream reaches of reservoirs. They can be found in areas with woody debris, stumps, undercut banks, shoreline riprap and rocky points. They prefer areas with a sandy bottom and generally avoid areas that are stagnant or heavily vegetated.
Life History
Spawning: - Redbreast sunfish spawn during late May through the end of July when water temperatures are from 65 degrees to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Males construct large saucer-shaped nests typically in shallow waters on sand or gravel substrates.
- Nests may be solitary or built in groups of more than 80 nests.
- Fertilized eggs are sticky and clump together in the nest.
Diet: - The redbreast sunfish feeds predominantly on aquatic and terrestrial insects, crayfish, mollusks and other fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Size
2-9 inches 3-8 ounces
Lifespan
: Approximately 8 years
State Record
: 2 pounds (1975)
