Bluegill across North Carolina

“Commonly referred to as “brim” or “bream,” the Bluegill is the most common of all the sunfishes. It is a member of the sunfish or pan fish family, which also includes the crappie and Largemouth Bass. Other species of sunfish sometimes mistaken for Bluegills are redears, pumpkinseeds and Warmouths. Because it is one of the true sunfish species that grow large enough to be acceptable to fishermen, the Bluegill has introduced many people to the sport of fishing. Its size, tenacious fighting ability and voracious appetite make the Bluegill a favorite of many anglers.”

“Bluegills are characterized by a small head and mouth and a hand- or pan-shaped body. The body is often an olive-green color with several broad, dark vertical bars on the side. The throat and belly are often yellowish or orange in color. The lower jaw and gill color is powder blue, hence the name “bluegill.” There is a black blotch at the base of the dorsal (top) fin. The earflap is entirely black, helping to distinguish the Bluegill from other sunfish species that often have an orange or red spot on the earflap. Bluegills tend to breed with other sunfish species, resulting in hybrids with the external characteristics of both parents. In populations where hybridization occurs, identification is often difficult. Bluegills are found throughout the United States and northern Mexico. They are the most common sunfish in North Carolina and are found in all types of habitats, except high-gradie”