Ahhhh, another Missourian that can appreciate how many of these little bait stealers we have. They're known as Lepomis megalotis to the science types, but they'll always be bait stealers to me. I have 4-5 in the 1-2" range and a 4 incher that's starting to show some good color. I've been doing 20 percent water changes twice a week to see if I can trick any of these little guys into thinking it's Spring and breed. I notices a pair of stonerollers defending and cleaning and area today so maybe love is in the air (or water I guess) in my tank. I have netted ten longears at a time on some recent collecting trips.
I'd be willing to trade for some sculpins if anyone has any to spare. I have access to a nearly unlimited supply of Missouri longears, yellow bullheads, blackspotted and balckbanded killies, and mosquito fish.
While I am not in the position to trade fish being as I am the worst fisherman on record, I would be more than happy to provide other compensation for a pair of 3-4" Longears. PM me if interested.