Shellcracker is the Common Name for the Red Ear Sunfish
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4 min read
With a world-record red ear sunfish weighing over 6 pounds caught in 2014, these large panfish are highly sought after by anglers. The most common name for the red ear sunfish is "shellcracker," a nickname that directly relates to its unique feeding habits. This freshwater fish, scientifically known as *Lepomis microlophus*, is also called chinquapin or stumpknocker in certain regions.
