But unlike its cousins, the bluegill will also consume some plant material. Bluegills spawn from May to July. Nests are usually built close to shore in firm sand or mud in two and one-half feet of water. Bluegills often nest in colonies with nests sometimes right next to each other. Some male bluegills have been known to raise two or three broods during one spawning season.
Bluegills fight hard when hooked, providing good sport for anglers.
They bite just about any bait, artificial fly, or small lure dropped in the water. Because of these qualities, they are frequently stocked in farm ponds and other impoundments. Pumpkinseed Of all the sunfish in New York State, the pumpkinseed is the favorite of children. It is one of the most catchable of all freshwater species, occurring in large numbers in shallow water close to shore and readily biting small pieces of bait. Pumpkinseeds are the most abundant and widespread species of sunfish in New York State.