One of our most common fish has an identity problem. Green sunfish live in nearly all water are often mistaken for black perch. In clear water, their dark green sides do look black, but these pan fish are definitely not perch.
Unlike their more popular cousin the bluegill, green sunfish are longer rather than deeper in body shape. They have a large mouth for catching other fish, crayfish, frogs or insects. They may also become a meal for bass, heron, or water snakes.
Green sunfish are colorful with bright yellow to yellow-orange fringe on their fins. Adults have blue-green zig-zag lines running up the lower jaw.
Green sunfish live in ponds, lakes and streams. They're easy to catch on a small hook -- baited with an earthworm -- and young anglers love to fish for them. They are so adaptable and competitive that they can easily dominate a farm pond-- often at the expense of bluegill, which some anglers find more desirable.
The Green Scene
Here are some areas where you can find green sunfish throughout the state:
- The Cherry Corner Access located south of Diamond.
- The Ashley Access, located south of Bowling Green.
- The Deep Ford Access, located northeast of Pineville.
- Catawissa Conservation Area, located in eastern Franklin County between Pacific and Catawissa.
Always make sure to check the regulations before fishing.
For more on green sunfish, head over to the MDC’s Field Guide.
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