Flounder| Fish Species Guide | Angling Direct

Flounder

Flounder

aka Platichthys flesus

Coming from the flatfish family, flounder have 2 eyes on the right side, but is shaped like a rounded diamond with rough surface along the lateral line. Found across Europe, and the ability to tolerate brackish water, flounder fish tend to follow rising tides from saltwater, into estuaries and upriver as they can survive short periods in freshwater. Like other flatfish, flounder are well camouflaged for their sandy sea bed environment, it’s colour ranges from light brown to grey, with some boasting orange spots with a white underbelly.

FactIt is estimated that the flounder fish evolved more than 50 million years ago. The fossil record from that time period indicates that some flatfish species had eyes on the very tops of their heads to watch prey fish from the bottom.

Stats

Habitat

Habitat

At shorelines over muddy and sandy bottoms or in estuaries and creeks.

Bait

Bait

Worms, prawns, crustaceans & molluscs

Fishing Tackle

Fishing Tackle

Native or Invasive

Native or Invasive

Native

Where

Where

British and Irish waters, but also extending into Northern European waters, and the Mediterranean and Black Seas.

Catch Experience Catch Experience

The flounder (Platichthys flesus), have both eyes on one side, anglers certainly have the advantage but don't be easily fooled as flounders still pull hard, so get some strong tackles. When fishing for flounders, is it necessary to look for clear, clean waters. Unlike other fish, flounders can be found during the daytime, and the bigger ones are commonly found at night. Known for being masters at camouflaging, they can quickly adapt to their environment, including the partners on their back, which can be pretty tricky to spot, especially at night. Looking for their outline is one of the best ways to spot them; however, when fishing from shore, a basic leger rig or a two hook running leger with a light rod to gain speed usually does the job. Once the bait is set, and on the move, the flounder will chase its prey; once the rod tip is moved, moving it at a mid-pace consistently will secure a catch. If the catch is lost, it is essential to remain patient while waiting for another bite as they may be cautious and hide. Flounders can be safely released back into the water by using a disgorger. This is done by pushing the generator scorcher from the gill slowly, pulling the line, turning the hook, slowly removing it from the gill and removing the line, then ready to be released back into the water.

Video

Blog Highlight

Guide to Beach & Sea Fishing Bait, Fresh or Artificial?

As with any fishing discipline, sea fishing bait is of paramount importance, anglers spend considerable time planning their next session; what tackle to use, line, rigs etc, but you have to remember the only thing the fish are actually interested in...

Read More
To top