Identification: Green sunfish are extremely aggressive members of the sunfish family. They are distinguished by being blue green with yellow flecked scales, yellow underside and black ear plates. Green sunfish have a wide range in North America–east of the Rocky Mountains and from Canada to the Gulf Coast of the United States. Given their broad range, green sunfish spawn based on temperature, typically April through June.
Habitat: The species prefers areas in sluggish backwaters, lakes and ponds with gravel, sand or bedrock bottoms. They also can be found in very muddy waters and are able to tolerate poor water conditions. Green sunfish tend to spend their time hiding around rocks, submerged logs, plants and other types of cover.
Other: Green sunfish sometimes are mistaken for bluegills because their gill covers have broken blue strips.
Habitat & Range
The species prefers areas in sluggish backwaters, lakes and ponds with gravel, sand or bedrock bottoms. They also can be found in very muddy waters and are able to tolerate poor water conditions. Green sunfish tend to spend their time hiding around rocks, submerged logs, plants and other types of cover.
Status, Trends & Threats
Given their adaptability and range, green sunfish are not listed as a species of concern. In New Jersey and Florida, they are considered to be an invasive species. Being omnivorous, their broad diet allows them to grow quick and out compete other species of sunfish.
License & Regulations
A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers age 15 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations. A West Virginia Trout Stamp is required to fish for or possess trout in designated trout waters. Purchase online through the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Identification
Green sunfish are extremely aggressive members of the sunfish family. They are distinguished by being blue green with yellow flecked scales, yellow underside and black ear plates. Green sunfish have a wide range in North America–east of the Rocky Mountains and from Canada to the Gulf Coast of the United States. Given their broad range, green sunfish spawn based on temperature, typically April through June.
Habitat
The species prefers areas in sluggish backwaters, lakes and ponds with gravel, sand or bedrock bottoms. They also can be found in very muddy waters and are able to tolerate poor water conditions. Green sunfish tend to spend their time hiding around rocks, submerged logs, plants and other types of cover.
Interesting Facts
The world record stands at 2.7 pounds and 13 inches from Missouri.
Regulations
West Virginia fishing regulations apply to Green Sunfish. A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers 15 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Some waters have special regulations including catch-and-release only, artificial lures only, or specific size limits. Check the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Fishing Regulations for current rules specific to your fishing location.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid West Virginia fishing license is required for anglers age 15 and older. Licenses are available for residents, no | Link |
