Lepomis Miniatus- Red spotted Sunfish

[Jeffrey D. Abney]

The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries have identified these fish that I referred to as "Stump Perch" officially as Red Spotted Sunfish with a scientific name of Lepomis Miniatus...........They explained that these fish are also referred to as Stump Knockers in many areas of their range.....If you Google Lepomis Miniatus there are some fact sheets available......They also went on to explain that the Black Spotted Sunfish is a close cousin to the red spotted sunfish with a scientific name of Lepomis Punctatus..........More to follow....Just goes to show you how many species and variations are out there.....Equally interesting is the nick names passed down for generations in the various regions of the country.....

[Vince Fusco]

 A buddy of mine that grew up in southern Missouri use to tell me about catching Stump Knockers. This is the first one I have ever seen. Beautifull fish.......  thanks for the pics.

[dick tabbert]

They are unique looking for sure, love the red eyes and there red body tints.

[Ronnie M.]

Very interesting fish. Never seen one before but it is a great looking fish with the red eyes.

[Jeffrey D. Abney]

I'm trying to arrange a trip this Fall back in the land of the Red Spotted Sunfish! Hope it works out...This is a fish I would also like to see Tim Overbaugh bring back to life......

[federico del toro]

We have a couple of rivers that have a good population of them, one of them is the comal river

they are in the small side, with the biggest being about 6" but they are very aggresive little fish and have a lot of fight in them

[Jeffrey D. Abney]

Take a look at the photos in this discussion for Spotted Sunfish.....I think Lee caught a Black Spotted Sunfish....I've caught a few Black Spotted Sunfish in Coastal South Carolina waters.....I've only caught Orange and Red Spotted Sunfish in Louisiana.....

[Jeffrey D. Abney]

Here's some nice photos of red and orange spotted sunfish Lee....

[dick tabbert]

Wow them are some neat looking red fish. I think they would look good in my pond but I don't think they would winter out very well.

[JBplusThuy]

So, why are they called stump knocker/stump perch?

[DAVID L EITUTIS]

ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL FISH JEFFREY!!!!!