Pumpkinseed Sunfish

SD Pumpkinseed Sunfish Fishing Guide

SDFreshwater
FishingSouth Dakota2026

Pumpkinseed are found statewide and most abundant in shallow vegetated areas of lakes and ponds as well as backwater and pool habitats of smaller streams. They feed on insects, crustaceans, snails and small fishes. The body of the Pumpkinseed is laterally compressed with olive-brown grading to an orange-red belly. Their sides are covered with gold colored spots and vertical bars and their cheeks have wavy blue-green stripes. The mouth is small and the ear flap is flexible with a red spot. The pectoral fins are long and pointed while the dorsal fin is heavily spotted and soft.

License & Regulations

A valid South Dakota fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day, 3-day, and annual). Purchase online through the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Description

Pumpkinseed are found statewide and most abundant in shallow vegetated areas of lakes and ponds as well as backwater and pool habitats of smaller streams. They feed on insects, crustaceans, snails and small fishes. The body of the Pumpkinseed is laterally compressed with olive-brown grading to an orange-red belly. Their sides are covered with gold colored spots and vertical bars and their cheeks have wavy blue-green stripes. The mouth is small and the ear flap is flexible with a red spot. The pectoral fins are long and pointed while the dorsal fin is heavily spotted and soft.

Daily Limit

15 Limits apply to any combination of sunfish species.

Possession Limit

30

Regulations

Daily limit: 15 Limits apply to any combination of sunfish species.; Possession limit: 30

References

State Category Directory Subcategory Content Source
South Dakota Fishing License License & Fees A valid South Dakota fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non Link