HABITAT

The range of the bluegill extends from the Gulf of Mexico to north of the (ireat Lakes and covers most of the area in between. The fish prefers clear water with thick weed patches near drop-offs.

It is the natural prey of bass and pike, but the little fish takes advantage of the larger fish during their spawning by eating their eggs and young fry. This may explain why some bass lakes become bluegill lakes. In addition, the game fish are taken by the angler, allowing the bluegill to grow large enough to eat the game fish fry, adding to the management problems of these lakes. It is not uncommon to find pan fish expanding to the point where they become stunted in competition for food. Heavier fishing pressure on these species and taking fish when they are spawning on the nest can ease the situation.

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