Anglers use the word PANFISH to categorize smaller-sized freshwater fish—sunfish (bluegills, pumpkinseeds), crappies, yellow perch, rock bass, and more.
Scientifically, a variety of fish species from several different families are included in the category called Panfish. 
For instance, largemouth and smallmouth bass are scientifically members of the sunfish family; however, they are not considered Panfish. Walleyes are members of the perch family but are not considered Panfish like their cousin, the yellow perch.
All members of the family are warmwater fish. They inhabit ponds, sloughs, slow-moving streams, shallow lakes, shallow bays of deeper lakes, and practically any other kind of warm-water habitat.
Panfish are arguably one of the most popular categories of fish worldwide. They are fun and easy to catch throughout the year. Most importantly for many, they are excellent to eat and very nutritious. Panfish often reside near shore, which makes them accessible to most anglers — young, old, new, and even expert anglers love panfish.
The technical name of the sunfish family is Centrar-chidae, meaning “nest builders.” The males of each species construct a nest, guard the eggs against predators, and guard the fry until they leave the nest.
The sunfish family includes three major groups: true sunfish, crappies, and black bass. Fliers, rock bass and Sacramento perch also belong to the sunfish family.
SUNFISH. This group of Panfish includes members of the genus Lepomis. Their bright, colorful appearance accounts for the name “sunfish.”
True sunfish are extremely popular among anglers around the world. They are easy to catch, good to eat, and put up a good fight for their size, especially older fish between 9 and 12 inches in length.
Hybridization (different species spawning together) is widespread among these fish. Hybrids are so predominant in some waters that you seldom see a purebred.
CRAPPIES (genus Pomoxis): Easily one of the most popular of all fish, crappies will tolerate lower oxygen levels and often become the most abundant species in winterkill lakes.
Unlike most other members of the sunfish family, crappies are roamers. Except in the spring, when they migrate shallow to spawn, crappies can be challenging to locate because of their habit of suspending far above the bottom.
What is the definition of a bream and how does it vary in different regions?
A bream is a type of fish that belongs to the genre Ambamis, found mainly in Europe, where it can be both freshwater and saltwater. The term “bream” can also refer to small fish found in freshwater environments in certain parts of North America, particularly as “bream panfish.” However, in other regions of the United States, “bream” is used interchangeably with “panfish” to describe small bluegills found in ponds, lakes, or creeks. This variation in definition shows how the term “bream” is applied differently across various regions, reflecting the diversity of fish species and naming conventions in different areas.
How do different factors, such as taste and cooking options, contribute to the popularity of panfish?
The delicious taste and versatility in cooking methods of panfish contribute to their popularity among anglers.
What role does the location of panfish play in their popularity?
Panfish are found in magnificent locations, and many anglers decide which fish breeds to target based on the fun they expect to have from the fishing experience.
Why are panfish popular among anglers?
Panfish are popular among anglers because they are effortless to catch, taste delicious, and can be cooked in various ways.
The passage introduces the idea that despite the typical classification of Largemouth Bass as non-panfish, there may be room for reevaluation based on individual experiences and practical considerations related to size and taste.
How does the practical consideration of a Largemouth Bass fitting into a frying pan influence its categorization as a panfish?
The practical consideration of a Largemouth Bass fitting into a frying pan is proposed as a factor that could potentially influence its categorization as a panfish, indicating that practicality and culinary enjoyment may play a role in defining panfish beyond traditional criteria.
Is there a more flexible or subjective aspect to categorizing the Largemouth Bass as a panfish beyond scientific classification?
The passage suggests that beyond scientific classification, the practicality of a Largemouth Bass fitting into a frying pan and being enjoyable to eat can introduce a more flexible or subjective element to its classification as a panfish.
How does the subjective experience of capturing and enjoying the taste of a Largemouth Bass impact its classification as a panfish?
The passage implies that the subjective experience of capturing a Largemouth Bass that fits into a frying pan and tastes good could potentially challenge traditional classifications, suggesting a more subjective or experiential aspect to the categorization.
Can the Largemouth Bass be considered a panfish based on its size?
Considering the size, the Largemouth Bass is usually not considered a panfish due to its larger size compared to typical panfish species.
[…] Anglers use the word PANFISH to categorize smaller-sized freshwater fish—sunfish (bluegills, pumpkinseeds), crappies, yellow perch, rock bass, and more. For instance, largemouth and smallmouth bass are scientifically members of the sunfish family; however, they are not considered Panfish. via […]
[…] However, distance and versatility are limited with this basic design. Spincast poles work well for panfish and stocked trout but lack sensitivity for serious […]