Long-wavelength fluorescent dyes with improved efficiency and stability are required to realize new photoelectronic and biophotonic applications. We have designed and synthesized novel 2,6- or 3,5-substituted BODIPY (BDP) dyes by a simple protocol to reach wavelength-finely tunable laser action from 600 to 725 nm. The influence of the nature and position of substituents on the laser behavior of the new BDP dyes have been systematically characterized as a function of dye concentration and chemical character of the medium. Regarding efficiency and photostability, the new chromophores outperform the laser action of dyes presently commercialized and considered as benchmarks over this spectral region when pumped under identical conditions. The results obtained provide insight into the always complicated composition-structure-properties relationship of dyes, and suggest possible synthesis routes for new BDP derivatives with properties optimized for specific applications.