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Did you know that the flounder fish has both of its eyes on one side of its head? This allows them to easily see their prey as they lay on the ocean floor. But, as their watching for their next prey, you’ll also need to watch and learn their habits to catch them.

Flounders are a flat fish which lay at the bottom of the ocean. They have a brownish color and eat shrimp and smaller fish. To catch a flounder fish, you’ll need to be patient, knowledgable, and use the right bait and rod.

Fishing is a great outdoor summer activity all your family members can enjoy. Fishing gets you away from modern society and into nature. It allows you and your family to leave your phones at home and to connect on the open ocean.

Fishing is also a great bonding activity. Being on a boat can also offer you a vacation from traffic, bad drivers, and other land-related annoyances.

If you’re going on a fishing adventure to catch flounder, then read on to find out how to catch them.

Tips on How to Catch Flounder

Fishing is a great activity for advanced fishing enthusiasts and beginners. But, fishing for specific fish does require different strategies and tactics. Since the flounder is a unique fish, you’ll also need to employ some unique strategies for getting this fish to bite.

Before you go fishing for flounder, make sure to acquire a fishing license. Each state has different requirements for these licenses, so make sure to research these laws well in advance. You should obtain a fishing license for the days you intend to fish.

These fishing laws help to preserve wildlife and to level the playing field. For example, some states may require that you put back certain sizes of fish. They may also allow you to only take a specific amount of fish home for dinner.

No matter what your intention for fishing is, for fun or for dinner, it’s important to be in the know about these laws. Explore the following tips for catching flounder so you can be prepared for what’s ahead.

1. Using the Right Rod and Tackle

To catch a flounder, you’ll need to use the right tackle and rod. One of the best ways to catch a flounder is by using a medium-action rod with bass-sized tackle. These rods are great for casting, but also provide you with hook setting power.

You should also consider investing in a dropper rig with a rounded weight.

Despite which type of rod you use, you’ll want to make sure its reel is compatible with the rod. For example, a baitcasting reel needs to be compatible with a baitcasting rod. A spinning reel, therefore, needs to match with a spinning rod.

However, when fishing for flounder, many experts suggest using a baitcasting reel and rod. This is because this type of rod can help you to be more precise when casting.

Using a bouncing technique after casting can also help to get the flounders’ attention, then causing them to bite.

2. Use Live Bait

Flounders love live bait. Use live bait such as finger mullet, croakers, or minnow to get the flounder’s attention. Even though flounder do enjoy eating shrimp, using them as live bait is less effective.

3. Know Where They Frequent

Where flounders are located depends on the weather and the season. In warmer weather, flounders can be found in the ocean. When the oceans cool below 58 degrees, flounder migrate to more shallow waters such as ocean streams and coastal rivers.

When the water is cooler is typically when most flounder fishing occurs. Typically, flounder fishing occurs in the fall.

Despite the water temperature, flounders tend to remain near ledges and drop-offs. This helps them to catch passing fish with ease. Fishing in clearer water is also helpful for catching flounder since they can see more clearly.

In clearer water, you’ll also be able to see flounder tracks. These tracks are created in the sand as the fish moves from one spot to the next. These tracks can help you to find a fishing sweet spot where you can catch multiple flounder at once.

If you book a fishing charter trip, they may have already identified hot spots for flounder which will allow you a greater chance of catching flounder fish.

4. Stick Around

If you catch one flounder, then more are sure to be nearby. This is because flounder travel in groups. So, after you catch one, stick around to catch more.

But, always adhere to the laws regarding size and the number of flounder fish you’re allowed to take home.

Fishing for Flounder: Booking a Charter

If you’re confident that these flounder fishing tips will help you to catch flounder, then you’re ready to take action. If you have a boat and a fishing license, then you’re ready to go.

If you don’t have a boat, then you may be interested in renting one or going on a fishing charter boat. For a charter, you will use the company’s boat and be guided throughout your fishing adventure.

However, it’s important to find a reputable fishing charter company before boarding the boat. To start, it’s important to research the company online using online reviews. You can find these reviews by using travel websites, social media, or by visiting the Better Business Bureau website.

Once you’ve found high-quality companies, it’s time to call them directly. When speaking with the company, make note of their customer service skills. They should be friendly, knowledgable, and willing to answer your questions.

You’ll also want to make sure they have all the proper licensing, insurance, and permits to operate their business. Lastly, ask them about their prices and rates to get an idea of how much the charter will cost.

Final Thoughts

Get up to three prices to determine which company fits best into your flounder-catching budget. But, keep in mind, that the quality of staff, boats, and fishing gear will all affect the final price.

Want to hire a reputable fishing adventure company in Galveston, TX? Contact us today to book your next fishing charter boat and to learn more about our prices and policies.

July 25, 2019