I think the black patches on flanks plays a role other than with reproduction. Females have it too although less developed.
Fish farmers up my way and further north will likely have same problem I have when it comes to winter survival. Even Coppernose from more southern locations have serious issues with cold.
If it were up to me, Hand Paint Bluegill would be cultured and marketed only in the drainage they are from. Then folks their would have their special fish.
I do not support that Coppernose outperform Northern Bluegill without some particulars considered.
