Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are iconic coastal flatfish found throughout Georgia's saltwater and estuarine systems, serving as important benthic predators in the state's coastal ecosystem. Georgia's Southern Flounder population is part of the Southeastern U. S.
Atlantic stock, which has experienced range-wide declines in recent decades, leading to increased management attention and conservation measures.
Scientific Name: Paralichthys lethostigma
These 'left-eyed' flounders are characterized by their olive to brown dorsal coloration with non-ocellated spots, lacking the distinct spotted patterns of Gulf and Summer Flounder.
They typically grow 12-14 inches in length, with females reaching considerably larger sizes (60-80 cm) than males (35-45 cm).
Fishing in Georgia
Ocmulgee River
Lake Sinclair
Flint River
Oconee River
Lake Tobesofkee
Lake Wildwood
Houston Lake
Housers Millpond
Rocky Creek
High Falls Lake
What to know
Habitat Distribution
Inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, tidal creeks, and even venture into freshwater areas of rivers throughout Georgia's saltwater and estuarine systems.Key Locations
Coastal marshes around Brunswick, St. Simons Island, and Savannah, with Crooked River State Park being one of Georgia's premier saltwater fishing destinations for the species.Specific Spots
Areas with structure such as dock pilings, bridges, jetties, shell beds, oyster bars, and creek mouths where currents funnel baitfish. Deep drop-offs and sharp sloping banks adjacent to man-made structures. Focus on smaller creek mouths, shell beds that create current, and shallow mud-bottom areas.Southern Flounder FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Southern Flounder in Georgia?
Gulp Swimming Mullet in white and chartreuse, DOA CAL 3-4 inch shad with paddle tails, soft plastic swim baits rigged on 1/4 to 1-ounce jig heads, white bucktail jigs tipped with squid strips, gold spoons, and shrimp-tipped feather jigs. For live bait: live mud minnows, finger mullet, and shrimp.
When is the best time to fish for Southern Flounder in Georgia?
Prime season for fishing runs from April through October, with peak abundance occurring from early May through fall. The summer months offer the most consistent action as water temperatures rise and food sources become plentiful.
How do you catch Southern Flounder in Georgia?
Presentation is critical - maintain proper depth as flounder feed exclusively on or very close to the bottom. Slowly drag lures over the seabed to mimic natural movements. Fan-cast areas and work baits back slowly with occasional bounces every 5-10 feet.
What do Southern Flounder eat?
Feed primarily on small fish including juvenile spot, striped mullet, and mummichogs, along with mysid shrimp, grass shrimp, and various crustaceans. As juveniles (around 2 inches), they focus on mysid and grass shrimp, transitioning to fish-based diets as they grow larger.
Where do Southern Flounder live in Georgia?
Inhabit coastal waters, estuaries, tidal creeks, and even venture into freshwater areas of rivers throughout Georgia's saltwater and estuarine systems.
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