Freshwater · Colorado River
Sunfish - bluegill
These notes are district-general defaults. Search your lake or stream first — special waters override these rules. Full booklet: 2026 Freshwater Guide. Catch reports: Fish data.
Species group
SUNFISH
Season
Open to fishing all year SEE DFG FISHING GUIDE FOR SPECIAL REGULATIONS
Daily bag limit
25 sunfish and crappie of all species SEE DFG FISHING GUIDE FOR SPECIAL REGULATIONS
Minimum size
SEE DFG FISHING GUIDE FOR SPECIAL REGULATIONS
Gear restrictions
SEE DFG FISHING GUIDE FOR SPECIAL REGULATIONS
Identification
The bluegill is noted for the black spot that it has on the posterior edge of the gills and base of the dorsal fin. The sides of its head and chin are a dark shade of blue. It usually contains 5 to 9 vertical bars on the sides of its body, but these stripes are not always distinct. It has a yellowish breast and abdomen, with the breast of the breeding male being a bright orange. The bluegill has three anal spines, ten to 12 anal fin rays, six to 13 dorsal fin spines, 11 to 12 dorsal rays, and 12 to 13 pectoral rays. They are characterized by their deep, flattened bodies. They have a terminal mouth, ctenoid scales, and a lateral line that is arched upward anteriorly. The bluegill typically ranges in size from about four to 12 inches, and reaches a maximum size just over 16 inches.