shellcracker

[ shel-krak-er ]

noun

1. redear sunfish.

Word History and Origins

Origin of shellcracker¹

An Americanism dating back to 1890–95; shell + cracker

Example Sentences

“We have got the whole host of resident sport fish, which would be largemouth bass, the collection of sunfish species of which most are bluegill, shellcracker, warmouth, black crappie and redbreast,” Ricks said.

From Washington Times

“Shellcracker and bluegill are no longer individual categories,” Wright said.

From Washington Times

The other change is in the freshwater division that used to include shellcracker and bluegill along with catfish, crappie, green trout and striped bass.

From Washington Times