Sunfish is kosher according to Jewish dietary law.

What is the scientific name of Sunfish?

The scientific name of Sunfish is Lepomis macrochirus.

Does Sunfish have fins and scales?

Yes. Sunfish has both fins and removable scales, which is the requirement set in Leviticus 11:9-12 and Deuteronomy 14:9-10 for a fish to be considered kosher.

Can I eat Sunfish sushi or sashimi?

If Sunfish is prepared in a kosher kitchen with kosher utensils and ingredients, Sunfish sushi or sashimi can be kosher. Always verify the kosher certification of the restaurant or preparation source.

What is Sunfish called in Hebrew?

Sunfish is known as דג שמש (דג שמש) in Hebrew.

Where can I find more information about whether Sunfish is kosher?

KosherFish.co references the Orthodox Union (OU) and Chabad lists of kosher and non-kosher fish. For specific halachic questions, consult your local Orthodox rabbi.

Sunfish

Lepomis macrochirus

Kosher

Has fins and scales

Fins Yes

Scales Yes

Description

Freshwater sunfish are small panfish in the family Centrarchidae, a group that includes bluegill, pumpkinseed, and crappie. They have fins and scales, so they are kosher.

Freshwater sunfish such as bluegill, crappie, and rock bass are popular panfish, usually fried whole or as fillets.

The freshwater sunfish family (Centrarchidae), which includes bluegill, crappie, warmouth, rock bass, and the black basses, lives in warm, slow fresh water across North America. They shelter in weedy lakes, ponds, and slow rivers.

Also known as

Bluegill
Calico Bass
Crappie
Crappies
Freshwater Bass
Freshwater basses
Largemouth Bass
Red Eye
Rock Bass
Smallmouth Bass
Sunfishes
Warmouth

Gallery

Sunfish — Alive — Alive · Gabrial Ji / Public domain

Warnings & Kosher Issues

Freshwater sunfish such as bluegill, crappie, and pumpkinseed have fins and scales, so they are kosher.
Do not confuse this with the ocean sunfish (Mola mola), a separate fish that is not kosher.