The Best Flounder Bait: How and When to Use

With its endearing appearance and delectable taste, Flounder is a unique fish. Its flat, camouflaged body and exceptional ability to blend seamlessly with its surroundings make it a top choice for anglers seeking a thrilling and challenging catch. 

Their flat bodies and behavior distinguish Flounders from other species. They are almost always found on sandy or muddy bottoms, where they catch prey such as shrimp, crabs, and small baits. 

Despite their cute appearance and shy demeanor, Flounders are aggressive feeders with a keen sense of movement and vibration. This makes them worthy opponents and not precisely easy fish to lure, but the thrill of the chase makes them such exciting targets for anglers. 

There are many baits you can use and many ways to cast them. If you are intrigued to learn more about the most popular types of lures for these flat beauties and how to best adapt them to Flounder behavior and environment, stay with us until the end.

Understanding Flounder

Flounder is specific in many ways. There are many different types of this fish, Southern, Northern, and Gulf Flounder, but what is common for all is a flat, wavy body. Its body is built for that perfect camouflage, straight, with both eyes on one side of the body, blending perfectly into sandy or muddy substrates. 

This is the basis of their behavior. They rely on stealth and sharp reflexes to attack while waiting for prey such as shrimp, crabs, and small baits, making them exciting targets for anglers. They are most active during tidal movements when prey naturally moves towards them. 

To catch Flounder, your bait must be adapted to the environment and seasons. These are primarily slow-moving baits, such as live shrimp or soft plastics, near the bottom. The popular flounder gigging technique targets them at dawn, dusk, and even night.

Habitat and Behavior

Flounders live in various aquatic environments, including estuaries, shallow flats, and deep channels. They are quite sensitive to tide cycles, water temperature, and seasonality. Their foraging strategy involves waiting, camouflaged against the ground, before attacking.

Shallow Flats

As a species that almost exclusively prefers the sandy bottom of shallow flats, Flounder loves shallow flats where it can blend in unnoticed and catch shrimp and bait fish. These flats, often very rich in seagrass, are their primary feeding grounds during high tide.

If you fish here, primarily use live shrimp or soft plastics in natural shades. Keep the bait close to the bottom and slowly retrieve it to attract a strike. Casting during low light, such as early morning or late evening, increases your chances of landing a Flounder.

Estuaries and Coastal Wetlands

Estuaries and wetlands are the basis of the Flounder hotspot because it finds abundant prey and shelter here. Juvenile Flounder often dominates these areas, while more significant adults patrol the deeper waters. Fishing live mullet or fingerlings along tidal creeks or grass edges should be the primary here, especially if you present them on the high tide.

Channels and Bays

Flounder gathers in canals and bays during strong tidal movements because food arrives as ordered in these areas without much trouble. Here, you can mainly locate larger specimens near structures such as bridges, wrecks, or pier rocks. 

For better results, weighted lures with live bait, such as minnows or scented lures, are best. Present the bait so that it naturally bounces on the bottom to imitate the movement of the prey.

Transitional Areas

Transition areas, such as river deltas, coastal wetlands, and other places where salt, brackish, and freshwater meet, provide perfect conditions for nutrition and a stable environment for growth.

Younger specimens usually congregate there, as sandy and muddy bottoms, vegetation, and structural shelters allow them to camouflage themselves while hunting for prey such as shrimp and small fish. Most of them are during the change of tide and salinity when there is also the most food.

Deep Water Areas

You will primarily find adult Flounder in these areas, especially Gulf Flounder. They prefer offshore waters and various structures, such as reefs or rocks. The temperatures are more stable, and there is an abundance of prey, such as crabs and shrimp.

Gulf Flounders often patrol here, feeding on sandy and muddy bottoms and structures such as sunken ships, artificial reefs, and shell islands. This means the fishing equipment must be heavier, and the bait must primarily be live, such as fish or shrimp.

Best Time to Catch Flounder

Flounder fishing can be productive year-round in tropical areas but varies depending on the season. They are known as fish that are often caught at dusk or night. They are most active during the tide transition, especially in the early morning and evening hours when the light weakens. Fall is the primary season because Flounders migrate to deeper waters and feed aggressively in preparation for winter. 

Seasonal Behavior

As a relatively sensitive fish, the Flounder adapts its behavior and feeding habits to the seasons, water temperatures, and migrations. This adaptability means you can catch it in various ways and habitats. To effectively lure this flatfish, it's crucial to understand its seasonal behavior.

Spring

As water temperatures rise in spring, Flounder slowly enters a new cycle and needs food. They then slowly move into shallower areas, such as flats and estuaries, searching for and actively hunting small prey. Spring is an excellent time for live shrimp or jigging with soft plastics. The sea is usually clear, and the weather is sunny, making it ideal for sight fishing.

Summer

Like most fish, Flounder seek cooler, shaded areas during the hottest parts of the day and retreat to deeper channels during the midday hours. Summer is a great time to fish for Flounder at night or during the early morning or dusk using float baits or bottom bait with live bait. Summer storms can also trigger a feeding frenzy, as waves usually bring them much food.

Fall

Fall is considered the best season for Flounder fishing. Flounder migrate to the Gulf and other deep waters, feeding aggressively and voraciously, making them less cautious. This is the time to fish for them with large baits such as mullets, which are ideal. Targeting them near inlets can yield some truly impressive catches.

Winter

Flounder slows down in the winter, seeking stable, deep environments such as channels or protected areas. Although less aggressive, they can still be caught with slow baits like soft plastics on jig heads. You can fish them during the midday hours when the water is cooler, but if you are in the areas of the winter, they can be significantly more active.

Best Live Baits for Flounder Fishing

Flounder fishing is often a game of patience, precision, and choosing the perfect bait. Although they are masters of disguise, their appetite for live prey gives anglers the edge. From live crabs to mullets, live baits mimic Flounder's favorite foods and trigger their ambush instincts.

Live Shrimp

Live shrimp are a traditional and highly effective choice for Flounder fishing. Their natural movement and scent make them irresistible, especially in shallow flats and estuaries where shrimp are naturally abundant.

To get the most out of this bait, set them on a Carolina rig or jig head, let them stay close to the bottom, and then slowly pull or lift them. They work exceptionally well during the changing tides, whether you are fishing from a pier, wading through shallows, or floating along a canal.

Finger Mullet

After shrimp, Finger Mullet is a favorite meal for Flounder, especially during the fall migration. They are lively and tasty, and to keep them that way on the hook, set them on a fish finder or weighted hook to keep them close to the bottom, where Flounder lie in wait. 

Move them by slowly trolling or floating them on sandy or muddy bottoms. Finger Mullet performs best in channels, inlets, and around structures such as piers, especially during moving tides.

Mud Minnows

Mud minnows' natural habitat is surrounded by the same areas that Flounders like to hang out in: muddy bottoms and brackish waters. This makes them easy to find and keep alive. 

Their constant movement attracts Flounder, especially in estuaries and tidal creeks. Set them up on a jig head or Carolina rig to bounce on the bottom, mimicking their natural behavior, attracting strikes from nearby Flounder.

Killifish

Killifish, also often called bull minnows, are small fish naturally found in wetlands and estuaries. They move with powerful sweeps and have a scent that makes them very effective, especially in murky waters with limited visibility. 

Killifish work best when placed on a weighted hook or bottom tackle and cast along grass edges or over sandy bottoms during high tides. They are mainly used in spring and autumn when Flounder feed actively.

Blue Crab

Blue crabs can be used alive or cut into pieces for Flounder fishing. Their sweet smell has a potent effect on Flounders' predatory instincts. Cut crabs work well on a jig head or bottom rig, while small, live crabs can be hooked through their shells to retain their natural movement. 

They have performed exceptionally well in deeper channels or around structures where Flounders are waiting to catch prey. They are incredibly productive during the fall migration when the Flounders feed aggressively. Although they require a little more preparation, the results are worth it.

Best Artificial Baits for Flounder Fishing

Artificial lures are popular and available for a reason, and when it comes to those suitable for Flounder fishing, there are many options. You may be faithful to the live bait, but many artificial ones move to raise the hunt for Flounder to a higher level. These are some of the most popular.

Soft Plastic Minnows

Classic artificial bait is also used for Flounder fishing. Its colorful appearance and versatile use characterize it. The bait's goal and design are to imitate small baitfish, the primary food source for the Flounder. Similar soft plastics are commonly featured in saltwater lure setups, especially those designed for bottom-feeding predators.

For a presentation that will initiate the Flounder's attention, put them on a jig head to keep them close to the bottom, where the Flounder usually lies in wait. Let the current carry them or pull them slowly and steadily. This method works well in shallow flats, estuaries, and even deeper channels. For colors, opt for white, chartreuse, or pearl.

Bucktail Jigs

Bucktail jigs have a weighted head and a liquid tail made of natural or synthetic fibers, thus creating a realistic swimming motion. It is a good option for Flounder fishing, as it can be used in various environments, from sand flats to deeper water. 

To maximize their effectiveness, cast them along the bottom with slow, deliberate movements, and you can add soft plastic trailers or small strip baits. They perform exceptionally well around structures such as piers and ledges.

Gulp Bait

What makes these artificial baits stand out is their smell. They combine the practicality of soft plastics with the allure of a live bait scent, making them irresistible to Flounder, especially in dark or low-visibility conditions. 

They are designed to imitate the live prey of Flounder. For better presentation, they are placed on a jig head and retrieved with a slow, bouncing motion along the bottom. Thus, their scent disperses in the water, attracting Flounder from a distance. They are excellent during tidal movements when Flounders are actively feeding.

Paddle Tail Swimbaits

Paddle swimbaits are another top choice for Flounder anglers, prized for their realistic swimming action. The paddle-shaped tail creates vibrations and movements that mimic a struggling baitfish, attracting Flounder even in deeper or murky waters. Place these lures on a weighted jig head so they bounce on the bottom.

 A slow and steady retrieve with occasional pauses works best, mimicking the erratic movements of injured prey. Paddle tail floats are versatile and can be used in estuaries, canals, and nearby structures. Choose natural colors for clear water or lighter shades for low visibility. Their simplicity and efficiency make them appealing to both beginners and experts.

Spoons

Spoons are timeless lures for Flounder, known for their flashy appeal and rocking action. These metal lures reflect light, mimicking the glare of fleeing baitfish, and are particularly effective in sunny conditions or clear water. Cast and retrieve them slowly and steadily, letting the spoon flutter near the bottom where the Flounder hides.

Adding a swivel to your rig can prevent line twists and improve action. Spoons are very effective in open water, canals, and around piers, where their flash can attract Flounder from a distance. Durable and easy to use, spoons are a versatile addition to any angler's arsenal.

Expert Tips for Flounder Fishing

Although it seems harmless, Flounders are not easy to catch. Their likability and skill in camouflage give them a predatory advantage. Given that Flounders are very difficult to spot and have a relatively gentle bite, it is essential that the gear, especially the line, is light and sensitive and that anglers are always on alert.

Choosing the Right Gear

Besides appropriate baits, the basic features of gear for hunting Flounder are precision and durability. These will provide you with the following setup.

• Medium Spinning Rods: They work well for rods between 6.5 and 7 feet long. They offer sensitivity to detect subtle hits while retaining power.
• Rotating Reel: Get yourself a quality spinning reel with a smooth drag system, so when you feel that Flounder is taking the bait, you can act quickly.
• Braided Rope: A 10-20 lb braided main line provides strength, while a fluorocarbon leader improves stealth near the bottom where Flounder mostly lurks.

Flounder is a very acceptable species for experimenting with baits and techniques but also has delicious meat as an additional incentive for catching.

Customize Lures and Colors

Flounder is a specific fish that requires baits to be adapted to the season and water area and to match the color of the entire setup.

For Flounder, soft plastic baits such as small fish bait or shrimp, placed on a jig head, which realistically bounce off the seabed, are good. A paddle or curly tail design is not a bad option, adding the vibes and movement of restless and injured prey.

Always follow the rule of thumb: Use light shades for murky conditions and natural, darker tones for clear water. You can also use those that allow you to add scents or attractants.

Popular Flounder Fishing Techniques

Flounder are interesting and tasty fish that can grow quite large, but their nature makes them a challenging opponent. You can choose from many techniques, from classic drift fishing to precise sight casting, each of which can present you with Flounder from a different perspective.

Drift Fishing

It is a relatively simple and effective technique that works well with cheaper and more expensive gear. It is excellent for deeper water or areas with strong currents. The method involves lowering the bait to the bottom, or you can present it at any level, and gently letting the boat flow, contributing to the presentation. 

The key to success lies in maintaining constant contact with the bait, with the help of a heavy jig with live bait such as shrimp or mullet. Move the rod slowly to bring the bait to life and challenge. This technique is particularly effective in channels, estuaries, and around structures such as rocks and piers, where Flounder waits for prey to pounce.

Sight Casting

Sight casting is an attractive technique involving visual contact with the Flounder before casting. It is used in shallow, clear waters like sandy shoals and grassy areas. After carefully walking and inspecting the terrain, you must first find the Flounder using polarized glasses and then carefully place the bait in its vicinity. 

Light jigs or presented with slow, controlled movements work best, as Flounder prefers prey that look wounded. Sight fishing teaches masterful control of both your own body and bait. In addition to what can give effective results, it provides a unique experience of observing Flounder in its natural environment.

Vertical Jigging

A vertical jigging can work wonders if the Flounder is in deep water. You can also target it in deeper water, such as canals, passages, or bridges. It involves dropping jigs directly to the bottom and raising them in short, quick movements to mimic the movement of wounded prey. 

Flounders are known for ambushing prey, so it's essential to keep the bait close to the bottom and use jigs with intense colors and additives such as scent. Vertical jigging requires a good feel for the rod and quick reflexes. It is especially effective when Flounders are actively patrolling their hunting grounds during high tide.

Drop Shot Technique

Drop shot is considered one of the most accurate techniques for hunting Flounder in more complex areas, such as uneven or covered with vegetation. The lead is placed at the end of the line while the bait is hooked above, giving the appearance of the bait floating above the bottom.

Live baits like shrimp or artificial ones like scented soft plastics are the best options. The drop shot works best with a slow line pull and occasional jerks and targets Flounder from muddy banks, marinas, and estuaries.

Trolling

Although not typical for Flounder, Trolling can also be used for Flounder fishing. This method covers large water areas, making it perfect for fishing in canals, around rocks, and estuaries. Like drifting, this method involves dragging a bait or lure behind a boat at low speeds. 

The best option is to use bait such as live shrimp, mullet, or artificial bait such as Gulp! It is most effective when the bait is held close to the bottom, so get used to adjusting the speed and depth to maximize the chances of a Flounder attack. This technique is excellent for experienced and beginner anglers, as it allows finding active fish and ensures a good catch.

Safety Tips for Flounder Fishing

Flounder is not a dangerous fish, but it knows how to be in hazardous locations. Sometimes, the excitement of fishing can take you away, so you don't pay attention, but safety in fishing is paramount.

• Stable Weather: Check the forecast before fishing, and don't go during storms, high tides, or extreme weather conditions.
• Always Inform Others. When traveling to remote or less-traveled areas, always tell someone where you are and where you are going.
• Adequate Clothing: Clothing must match the fishing conditions. Waterproof clothing, non-slip boots, and goggles are necessary for a comfortable and safe stay in Flounder habitats.
• Wading stick: If you're navigating murky waters, a stick helps you gauge depth and stability. This is especially important if you go fishing during the night.

Always carry a life jacket and safety kit because it can save your life and fishing. If it is dark or cloudy weather, ensure you have proper lighting. 

Fishing Regulations and Ethical Practices

Flounders are vital in the sea, especially those around the bottom, so it is important to balance fishing with conservation. Most regions include seasonal closures, size limits, and daily quotas to protect their populations. Of course, having the appropriate license and permit is a must. 

The Flounder population is not threatened in principle, but its abundance is monitored primarily by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Practicing responsible fishing with environmentally friendly gear and sustainable fishing through catch-and-release is always advisable. Also, always leave your fishing spot cleaner than you found by properly disposing of all debris.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right bait for Flounder is undoubtedly not easy. Because it is never only the bait that is in question, but the entire setup must be streamlined with the rest of the fishing strategy. Fortunately, there are many options, and with a bit of creativity, you can experiment!

Now it's your turn – try these techniques and let us know what worked best for you. Happy Flounder fishing!