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The Flier

Flier is a deep-bodied sunfish associated with quiet, muddy water and aquatic vegetation. Swamps, ponds and river backwaters support this distinctive member of the sunfish family.

Distribution

Flier occurs from the Potomac region south through Florida and west toward the Trinity River in Texas. Its range also extends northward through the Mississippi embayment. These records connect Atlantic and Gulf coastal waters with parts of the interior lowlands.

Quiet-Water Habitat

Muddy bottoms and plant cover are characteristic features of occupied waters. Deep body shape distinguishes its overall outline from the more elongated form of many stream fishes. A record from a river may concern a sheltered backwater rather than the main current.

Food and Size

Aquatic insects, including water bugs, appear in the diet. The reported maximum is 29.2 centimeters total length, although the common reference is much smaller at thirteen centimeters. The published weight is a separate reference measurement and need not belong to the longest fish.

Notice the Backwater

When recording Flier habitat, note whether the fish came from a swamp, pond or sheltered river margin rather than naming only the river.

All Lakes With Flier

Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Flier records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.

Showing 1–11 of 11 lakes · Page 1 of 1

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