Flounder can be found on the ocean floor and coastal estuaries.Flounder like to hide and ambush their prey, so the trick to catching them is to move bait across their path and wait for them to strike.When you catch a flounder, you'll get a delicious seafood meal.How to get started is below.
Step 1: There are saltwater areas on the coast.
Flounder can be found up and down the Atlantic coast of the U.S. in rivers, estuaries and streams near the ocean.Flounder fishing is very popular in Florida, Alabama, and South Carolina, but also in the Northeastern coastal areas.Check your local regulations on the size and number of fish you can catch.You need a fishing license to fish in your area.
Step 2: Flounder can be fished when they migrate.
Flounder are easier to catch in the fall when they migrate toward the ocean.When they're large enough, they swim to the ocean to spend the winter before coming back.If you want to fish for flounder in the winter and spring, be aware that you may not be able to catch enough to keep.You should check the local fishing reports before you go fishing.
Step 3: Flounder can be found near the bottom.
Flounder lie on their sides at the bottom of the river, estuary or coastal area.One particularly large species of flounder is called a "doormat," referring to its shape and preference for residing low to the ground.Flounder have lighter spots that help them blend in with sandy riverbeds and estuaries.Flounder have two eyes on the same side of their head, which allows them to see what's happening above them.
Step 4: Flounder can be found under ledges.
Flounder like to ambush fish near ledges and dropoffs.If you want to find areas where the current runs from shallow to deeper water, you should look for seams.You can figure out where the ledges and drop-offs are by wading the area before casting your line.You can find the best hiding places for the fish with your feet.
Step 5: Check the flounder tracks.
When they move away to feed, they leave tracks in their wake.When the tide is low, it's a good idea to get familiar with the telltale tracks.Getting to know the area where you want to fish is the best way to get lucky.You can get a better idea of the fish's habits by going to the area at both low and high tide.
Step 6: Live baitfish can be used.
Flounder respond well to live fish.Sea worms and clams are effective.Smaller baitfish can be caught through the eye.Fresh squid or live shrimp can be added to the bait mix.Hot dogs can work well.Try another bait if one doesn't work.Flounder will not bite even if they like a certain bait in the past.You can catch your own live bait in the area where you're fishing.
Step 7: Artificial bait can be tried.
If live bait is hard to come by in your area, use red, pink, white or yellow grub-tailed jigs.If you aren't having luck with live bait, it's a good idea to have some on hand.
Step 8: Put your tackle up.
A 7 ft rod is standard for catching fish.You should use a line that is sturdy enough to handle larger fish.It is easier to bite with a circle hook.To make sure the hook is within reach, you'll need a sinker.
Step 9: The bait should be dropped to the bottom.
You need the bait to cross their path to hook a Flounder.You're less likely to catch one if you fish from a stationary location.Flounder fishing can be done from a boat since you can slowly drift and lure the fish with your bait.Try to find a current that will move you steadily along the surface of the water without carrying you along too quickly for fish to bite.You should be able to feel the bottom.You may not be using enough weight if you can't.Attach a small weight to your rig to make sure that your bait stays on the bottom.
Step 10: If you want to catch a fish, wait a few sections.
It takes a few extra seconds for them to get a grip on the bait since they lie sideways.Wait about 5 seconds to make sure the fish is hooked.
Step 11: Try to work.
"gigging" is when you spear the fish with a barbed spike.You spear fish while wading through shallow water at night.Aim low because the water will make the fish appear a little further away than it actually is.