Summer Flounder
Paralichthys dentatus
Summer flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) is a left-eyed flatfish of the western Atlantic, prized by anglers for its ambush strikes and excellent table quality. It lives on sandy and muddy bottoms in coastal waters, moving inshore in warm months and offshore in winter.
Identification points
- Left-eyed flatfish with both eyes on the left side of the head
- Five distinct ocellated spots on the eyed side are common
- Large mouth with visible teeth and a mottled brown-to-olive camouflage pattern
Habitat
Sandy and muddy bottoms in bays, estuaries, inlets, channels, and nearshore ocean waters; often lies buried or partly buried on the bottom. Common around tidal creeks, wreck edges, and jetties during warm months.
Bait notes
Live killifish, peanut bunker, spearing, spot, and sand eels are top baits; strips of squid and shrimp also work. Soft-plastic jerkbaits, bucktails, and Gulp-style baits are effective when matched to local forage.
Behavior
A sit-and-wait predator that ambushes small fish, shrimp, and squid from the bottom. It often tracks tidal movement and feeds actively at dawn, dusk, and on moving water; larger fish can be selective and favor natural presentations.
Caution
Can accumulate contaminants in some regions; follow local consumption advisories, especially for larger fish. Check local regulations for minimum size, bag limits, and seasonal closures; handle carefully to avoid sharp gill covers and teeth.
Fishing notes
Work rigs slowly along the bottom with short hops or a steady drag pause retrieve. Drift channels, sloughs, and drop-offs with light-to-moderate sinkers; in surf or current, keep contact with bottom and use fluorocarbon leaders.