Flounder (Southern)

This Flounder averages 2-4 pounds, but fish running 8-12 pounds are caught each year; mostly in the fall around major inlets from the Georgia line to Sebastian. World Record is 20 pounds, 9 ounces.

Most of the year, this fish is found in relatively shallow areas, preferring soft bottom near such cover as bars or rubble. Also holes in grass beds and edges of channels. A cryptic species that tolerates low salinities; occurs frequently in brackish bays and estuaries, even on occasion in fresh water. Adults are found mostly over mud bottoms in estuaries and coastal waters to about 40 m depth. Taken by anglers inshore from bridges, jetties and small boats. They move to deeper water in winter, but are still easily accessible. Adults feed chiefly on fishes, also on crabs and shrimps. Juveniles take mainly small bottom-living invertebrates.

Brown or olive background, liberally marked with both dark blotches and white spots; however, the prominent eye-like spots (ocelli) of the Gulf Flounder are missing.

Distinct pairing

Summary of Distribution: Western Atlantic: North Carolina to Texas in USA, but absent from southern Florida.
Note: Distribution range colors indicate degree of suitability of habitat which can be interpreted as probabilities of occurrence (fishbase.org)

	Kite Fishing (Rig) A Kite Fishing Rig is....
	Kite Fishing (Trolling) Kite Fishing Trolling is when you are....
	River Drift River Drift means to use the....
	Trawling Trawling is when....

For most Flounder fishing, ordinary light spinning or baitcasting tackle is more than adequate. When targeting doormats around the inlets with live bait, the same types of gear, but with stouter rods and perhaps stronger lines should be used. Light saltwater boat tackle also does the job. Big Flounder are taken mostly with live fish as bait. Finger Mullet are favorites everywhere. Smaller fish and big ones at times will also hit live or dead shrimp and cut baits. While most fish-imitating lures will take Flounder, jigs are the most productive.