PINE BLUFF, Ark. — The bluegill is a versatile species present in most Arkansas ponds, streams and large reservoirs. Many only consider bluegills as food for larger predators such as largemouth bass, catfish and crappie, according to Scott Jones, small impoundment Extension specialist at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. However, with some adjustment to management strategies to favor bluegill growth, pond owners may come to appreciate their potential as a sportfish.
The most common bluegill variety available at local fish farms or fish truck delivery routes is the northern bluegill. They are usually simply labeled as “bluegill” and were likely initially sourced from within the state to ensure compatibility with the climate and typical conditions of the area, Jones said. The northern bluegill performs well across all of Arkansas and can grow well over 8 to 9 inches in length with proper management and good conditions.
“Coppernose bluegill are also widely available. The coppernose is a subspecies of bluegill native to northern Florida and Georgia,” he said. “They are closely related enough to northern bluegill to interbreed but they do have noted growth and climate tolerance differences.”…