Introduction
The Pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus), affectionately known as the “Common Sunfish” or “Punky”, is a member of the Centrarchidae family brimming with eccentric colors.
Conservation Status
The Pumpkinseed is widely flaunted as a species of Least Concern. It continues to thrive, with the human impact largely negligible. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining clean fresh water habitats, exploiting fishing regulations, and cultivating suitable spawning conditions.
Statistics
Let’s delve into this fascinating fish’s specifics using the table below.
| Average | Range | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 20 cm | 10-40 cm |
| Weight | 1 pound | 0.5-2 pounds |
| Average Lifespan | 6-8 years | |
| Sexual Maturity | 2-3 years | |
Distribution
Although originally from the Eastern part of North America, its distribution scope extends to various parts of Europe and Africa, elevating it to an invasive species status in some regions. Migration is seldom recorded, with Pumpkinseeds prefering settled life.
Habitats
Pumpkinseeds thrive in calm, warm waters with bountiful vegetation that offer the safety of hideouts. Shallow depths are ideal, with a temperature swing between 15°C - 28°C.
When and Where to See
Pumpkinseeds display consistent activity throughout the day. But they are most noticeable during the spawn season in spring when the water temperature hovers around the 15°C mark.
Best Fishing Locations
Top spots to angle these vibrant creatures include:
- Devil’s Lake, Oregon
- Great Pond, Maine
- Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
- Chain O’Lakes, Illinois
- Cossayuna Lake, New York
For those attempting to find Pumpkinseeds, keep an eye out for shallow, fresh water bodies with substantial vegetation.
How to Catch
Insect replicas, small spinners, and live bait including night crawlers, leeches and daphnia are known to excite the Pumpkinseeds. Techniques like fly fishing, trolling, or drop-shots are equally effective. The optimal season to catch these striking swimmers is in the warmer months.
Identification Guide
Pumpkinseeds sport a vibrant range of colors, with red, orange, and blue being predominant. Their flattened body, serrated gill cover and the black ear flap distinguish them from similar species like the Bluegill.
Culinary
Although on the smaller side, Pumpkinseeds offer a sweet taste akin to Bluegill. They cook perfectly when filleted and pan-fried. Their moderate calorie count of 96 kcal per 100g, and favorable Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratio, make them a healthy option.
Additional Information
Pumpkinseeds are known to be opportunistic feeders with a diet extending to snails, leeches, insect larvae, and even their own eggs. They build circular nests where the females lay their eggs, followed by paternal incubation. Their significant predators include larger fish, birds, and humans.
While Pumpkinseeds may not carry a massive historical or cultural backstory, they are a popular catch due to their radiant colors and aggressive nature.
References and Further Reading
1. Froese, R. and D. Pauly. Eds. 2018. FishBase. www.fishbase.se, version (10/2018).
2. Fuller, P., Nico, L., and J. Williams. 1999. Nonindigenous fishes introduced into inland waters of the United States. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, MD.
3. Smith, C.L. 1985. The Inland Fishes of New York State. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Albany, NY.
For more Pumpkinseed insight, the book “Freshwater fishes of the northeastern United States” by Robert G. Werner is an excellent read