Southern Flounder

Western Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico — from North Carolina south through Florida and throughout the Gulf to Mexico. The dominant inshore flounder of the Gulf Coast and Southeast Atlantic. Found in bays, estuaries, marsh edges, and tidal creeks. Very common in Texas and Louisiana bays — one of the most popular target species. Gigging for flounder at night is a beloved Gulf Coast tradition. A left-eyed flounder.

60°F–80°F. Found in shallow coastal waters, bays, and estuaries — moves offshore in fall to spawn in deeper Gulf waters.

Best Lures: Gulp! shrimp on a jig head are the top producer — worked slowly along bottom in bays and tidal creeks. Soft plastic paddle tails near bottom produce consistent results. Best Baits: Live finger mullet are the top live bait. Live small shrimp work excellently. Live mud minnows (killies) are outstanding. Night gigging with a bright light in shallow bay water is the most exciting harvest method — flounder are easily spotted and approached in the shallows at night.

Typically 1–4 lbs and 12–20 inches. Trophy fish exceed 10 lbs. World record: 20 lbs 9 oz from North Carolina. Excellent eating — large, thick, sweet fillets. Strict size and bag limits apply in most Gulf states.

1 official record on file for Southern Flounder