All About Sunfish
Species overview, identification, habitat and life history from the Pennsylvania Fishes Reference Book
Sunfish Fishing Tips
Where
Habitat -- Rocky areas of ponds and lakes. Riffles and pockets behind rock in rivers and streams
How
Bait -- Minnows, crayfish, grubs, nightcrawlers, hellgrammites, on a light wire hook-drifted along bottom. Weight with a few split shot
Lures -- Small spinners & twisters
Lure Color -- Black, brown and green
Line -- 4-8 lb. test
Hook Size -- 4-8
Lure Size -- 1/16 to 1/8 oz
When
Spring -- Mid-day
Summer -- Early/late day
Fall -- Early/late day
Interactive Maps
Find fishing waters by using one or more of our interactive maps:
- Warmwater/Coolwater Fisheries for waters known to have panfish in them
- County Guide for access point