The bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) is a freshwater sunfish native to North America, easily recognized by its deep, flattened body and distinctive blue or purple coloring on the gill covers. Renowned for its spirited fight and accessibility, the bluegill is a favorite among recreational anglers, especially in the United States, where it is one of the most commonly caught panfish. The U.S. dominates both wild harvest and aquaculture of bluegill, with extensive populations in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers across the Midwest and South. While bluegill have been introduced to other countries—including Canada, Japan, South Africa, and parts of Europe—their popularity and commercial significance remain highest in the U.S., where they support a robust recreational fishing industry and are occasionally farmed for food and stocking purposes. In other countries, bluegill are often considered invasive, and their fishing industries focus more on native species.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.