Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are the most abundant flounder species in South Carolina waters, distinguished from other local flounders by their lack of distinct spots on the pigmented side.
Scientific Name: Paralichthys lethostigma
These 'left-eyed' flatfish have both eyes on the left side of their dorsoventrally flattened bodies, with light to dark brown pigmented sides controlled by chromatophores for camouflage, and white or dusky undersides.
Adults typically measure 12-14 inches and weigh 1-2 pounds, though South Carolina's state record is 17 pounds, 6 ounces. Females grow larger and live longer (7-8 years) than males (5 years).
Fishing in South Carolina
Lake Marion
Wateree River
Broad River
Saluda River
Lake Murray
Black River
Catawba River
Lynches River
Lake Moultrie
Santee River
What to know
Habitat Distribution
Southern flounder are highly adaptable to varying salinities, occupying lower salinities than other Paralichthid species and occasionally reaching freshwater areas like the South Edisto River. Adults inhabit estuaries, rivers, shallow coastal waters, front beaches, muddy-bottom tidal creeks, creek mouths, flooded salt marshes at high tide, and near estuarine inlets, overwintering offshore. Juveniles reside in shallow, soft-bottom tidal creeks in upper estuaries, utilizing submerged vegetation for cover and foraging.Key Locations
Key locations include Winyah Bay with its extensive tidal creeks and mud flats, North and South Santee Bays, Cape Romain's undeveloped marsh systems, and Murrells Inlet.Specific Spots
Focus on creek mouths, oyster bed edges, marsh drains, grass flats near drop-offs, and slight bottom changes or current seams. Fish muddy bottoms in shallow areas, particularly around docks, pilings, and structure edges.Southern Flounder FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Southern Flounder in South Carolina?
Live bait is most effective - finger mullet or mud minnows. For artificials, soft plastics like paddle tails and curly tails. White bucktail jigs tipped with squid strips are highly productive.
When is the best time to fish for Southern Flounder in South Carolina?
Southern flounder fishing in South Carolina peaks from May through October, with summer and fall (August-October) being the most productive months. Adults spawn offshore during late fall and early winter - a period to avoid targeting them.
How do you catch Southern Flounder in South Carolina?
Rig finger mullet or mud minnows on Carolina rigs with just enough weight to maintain bottom contact. For artificials, use jigheads between 1/8 and 3/8 oz with soft plastics, working them slowly with pauses near structure. Present baits on or very close to the bottom where flounder ambush prey.
What do Southern Flounder eat?
As ambush predators using camouflage, they feed primarily on fishes including striped mullet, spot, mummichog, white mullet, and anchovy, plus crustaceans like grass shrimp, penaeid shrimp, and blue crabs.
Where do Southern Flounder live in South Carolina?
Southern flounder are highly adaptable to varying salinities, occupying lower salinities than other Paralichthid species and occasionally reaching freshwater areas like the South Edisto River.
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