Nebraska Fish Species: Bluegill

These hand size/shaped sunfish typify the family.  Mention sunfish and there’s little doubt that bluegill with come to mind.  Their bluish-black earflap is a distinguishing feature.  Equipped with a relatively small mouth, they are nonetheless voracious feeders taking surprisingly large lures. The spiny dorsal fin usually has ten spines and the anal fin three. Bluegills are usually dark olive green along the back, with a variety of colors along the sides, lavender, brown, copper, or orange.  Older specimens often have a reddish-orange or yellow belly.
 
Spawning begins when water temperatures near the70’s. Typically starting in May or June and they may spawn all summer.  As a result bluegills often overpopulate. They prefer to nests in shallow water on a gravel base. Males, like most sunfish, guard the nest. 

Ahh the joys of childhood and catching bluegills on a bobber and worm...at least that's how it was for us. But this hard-fighting panfish has a dedicated following, more so than just child's play. So chances are there's a body of water very close to you that is stocked (and stacked) with bluegill. The world record angling record tips the scales at 4 pounds 12 ounces, and adults can grow over 12" long. Get one of these hooked onto your lightweight fly or spin rod and it'll definitely take you for a spin! And while you're at it, take a kid out who could use a little fishing time!