Loading...
Orangespotted Sunfish
Lepomis humilis
2–4 inches
Typical Length
Under 0.25 lb
Typical Weight
Year-round (no closed season)
Season Opens
N/A
% of MN Lakes
The orangespotted sunfish is a small, colorful panfish found in slower streams and shallow lakes in southern and western Minnesota. Males display vivid orange spots on their sides during spawning.
Habitat
Orangespotted sunfish tolerate turbid, low-gradient waters that are too warm or silty for most other sunfish. They're found in prairie streams, backwater sloughs, and shallow lakes in the western part of the state.
When to Fish
Best months: June, July
Season opens: Year-round (no closed season)
Too small to target specifically, orangespotted sunfish are occasional catches while panfishing with small hooks and worms.
Did You Know?
- Male orangespotted sunfish develop brilliant orange spots on their body and fins during breeding season.
- They're one of the smallest sunfish species in Minnesota, rarely exceeding 4 inches.
Orangespotted Sunfish (Lepomis humilis) is a baitfish species found in Minnesota lakes and rivers.