Southern Flounder
Paralichthys lethostigma
Southern Flounder is a left-eyed flatfish common in shallow coastal waters of the western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. It lies buried in sand or mud, ambushing small fish and shrimp; it is a popular inshore target where regulations often limit harvest.
Identification points
- Left-eyed flatfish with both eyes on the left side of the head
- Dark upper side with many irregular white spots scattered over the body
- Broad, oval body with a small mouth and a straight to slightly curved lateral line
Habitat
Estuaries, bays, tidal creeks, sounds, and nearshore surf over sand or mud bottoms; juveniles often use seagrass and marsh-edge shallows, while larger fish move slightly deeper along channels, drop-offs, oyster edges, and passes.
Bait notes
Live shrimp, finger mullet, mud minnows, menhaden, and small baitfish are top producers. Soft-plastic swimbaits, jigs tipped with gulp-style shrimp, and small paddle tails also work well when matched to local forage.
Behavior
A bottom ambush predator that camouflages itself on the seafloor and strikes quickly at passing prey. It feeds mainly on small fishes and shrimp, often most actively around moving tide, channel edges, and bait concentrations.
Caution
Watch local size and bag limits; southern flounder regulations are often strict. As a bottom-dwelling species from estuaries and nearshore waters, it can carry contaminants in some areas, so follow local fish-consumption advisories.
Fishing notes
Fish slowly along bottom with light leaders and enough weight to maintain contact. Drift or cast across drop-offs, creek mouths, and grass edges; let bait sit briefly, then set after a steady pull rather than an immediate tap.