Flounder Fishing

Flounder (including summer flounder, southern flounder, and Gulf flounder) are among the most popular inshore and nearshore game fish along the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coasts. These flatfish are ambush predators that lie on the bottom, perfectly camouflaged against sand or mud, waiting to attack passing baitfish, shrimp, and crabs. Their both-eyes-on-one-side anatomy makes them one of the most unusual-looking fish in the sea.

Flounder fishing requires a different approach than most other species. Since flounder hug the bottom and rely on ambush rather than pursuit, presentations must be slow and close to the substrate. Bouncing a jig tipped with a minnow or strip of cut bait along the bottom is the classic flounder technique. Drifting with the current over sandy flats, along channel edges, and near structure like bridges and docks is particularly productive.

The fall flounder run is one of the most anticipated fishing events along the mid-Atlantic and Gulf coasts. As water temperatures cool, flounder migrate from bays and estuaries to the open ocean to spawn, concentrating at inlet mouths and passes in massive numbers. During this migration, daily catches of 10 or more fish per angler are possible. Flounder are outstanding table fare -- their white, delicate flesh is mild and flaky, making them one of the most sought-after food fish in the inshore realm.