Bluegill

Biological Profile & Regional Guide

Table Fare: Excellent

Pennsylvania (PFBC)

Adult (Weight): 0 lb 12 oz
Junior (Weight): 0 lb 8 oz
Catch & Release: 8 in

State Record: 2 lb 9 oz

📍 Little Buffalo Lake (1983)

New York (NYSDEC)

Angler Award: 10 in
(Minimum Length Requirement)

State Record: 2 lb 8 oz

📍 Kezar Lake (1992)

Deep, round body. Dark spot at the base of the dorsal fin and a solid black opercular (gill) flap.

6-10 inches. Males grow slightly larger and thicker.

Lakes, ponds, and slow rivers. Loves weed beds and docks.

Insects, larvae, snails, and small crustaceans.

Movement: Highly social, schooling fish. Curious and aggressive toward small baits.

Spawning: Late spring/summer. Males sweep out clustered, crater-like nests in the shallows.

Lifespan: 5-8 years

Fighting Behavior: Aggressive biters. Will repeatedly peck at baits too large to swallow.

Recommended Tactics: Fishing small baits beneath a sensitive float near weed edges or docks.

Best Baits/Lures: Red worms, wax worms, tiny jigs, small popping flies.

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