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Flier

Also known as

round sunfish, millpond flier

IUCN status

Least Concern

About the Flier

The Flier is a distinctive, disc-shaped sunfish, typically silvery to bronze-green, known for the striking dark spot, or ocellus, on the posterior portion of its dorsal fin. Its flanks are often marked with rows of dark spots or dashes that create broken lateral lines. With its small, slightly upturned mouth and large eyes, this species is well-adapted for navigating and feeding in dense vegetation and murky waters. They rarely exceed 8 inches in length, making them a true panfish.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

Fliers prefer quiet, vegetated waters, making their home in muddy-bottomed swamps, serene ponds, weedy lakes, and the tranquil backwaters of rivers. They are almost exclusively found in areas with dense aquatic vegetation, which provides both cover and a rich food source.

Distribution

This sunfish is native to the American South, with its range extending from southern Illinois eastward to the Potomac River basin and south all the way to Texas. Anglers can find them across this broad region in suitable freshwater habitats.

Behaviour

Fliers are ambush predators, typically lurking within dense submerged vegetation, ready to dart out and snatch unsuspecting insects, small crustaceans, and aquatic larvae. They are not known for extensive movements, generally remaining within their preferred weedy haunts. Spawning typically occurs in spring to early summer, with males guarding nests in shallow, vegetated areas.

Edibility

★★★★★

Like many sunfish, Fliers offer a mild, white, and flaky flesh. While their small size means you'll need a good number for a meal, they are a tasty addition to any panfish fry.

Lure suggestion

For Fliers, small artificial lures like micro jigs (1/32 to 1/16 oz) tipped with a tiny grub or plastic will be highly effective, especially when fished around vegetation. Live bait such as crickets, red worms, or small minnows presented under a bobber near cover is also a proven method. Ultralight tackle with light line (2-4 lb test) will maximize the fun and detect subtle bites.