Speckled Sanddab
Citharichthys stigmaeus
Speckled sanddab is a small Pacific left-eyed flatfish found on sandy bottoms from shallow coastal waters to the continental shelf. It is a minor bycatch rather than a targeted game fish, but it can be taken on small bait rigs or jigs.
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Identification points
- Left-eyed flatfish with both eyes on the dark, upper side
- Upper side covered in small dark speckles on a brown to tan background
- Small mouth and a slender oval body with long dorsal and anal fins
Habitat
Soft sandy and muddy bottoms over the inner continental shelf, often near kelp edges, estuary mouths, and deeper nearshore flats from shallow water to well offshore.
Bait notes
Use small pieces of shrimp, squid, mussel, or cut bait on light bottom rigs; small soft plastics, baited hooks, and tiny jigs also work. Downsize tackle and keep offerings near the bottom.
Behavior
A bottom-dwelling ambush feeder that lies buried or camouflaged in sand and feeds on small fish, shrimp, and worms. It is most active near the seabed and readily strikes small moving prey.
Caution
Handle carefully because flatfish have sharp gill covers and can flop hard on deck; local size and bag rules may apply. Consumption concerns are generally low, but follow California/Oregon seafood advisories if fish are kept.
Fishing notes
Fish slow along sandy bottom with a dropper loop or Carolina-style rig, or hop a small jig just off bottom. Best results come with light line, small hooks, and a gentle retrieve; it is usually caught incidentally rather than targeted.