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Summer Flounder

Summer Flounder

Summer flounder are native flatfish found along Virginia's Atlantic coast, with Virginia being in their prime Mid-Atlantic range.

These remarkable fish have both eyes on their left (ocular) side and lie flat on sandy or muddy bottoms, using chromatophores to change color and camouflage with their surroundings.

Scientific Name: Paralichthys dentatus

Also known as fluke

Physical Characteristics:
  • Adults typically weigh 1-2 kg, with females averaging 32cm and males 24cm, though trophy fish can reach up to 7kg.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found along Virginia's Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia to Florida.
  • They inhabit the benthic zone in coastal waters and estuaries.

Key Locations

  • Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Rudee Inlet, Lynnhaven Inlet, Little Creek, and along Virginia's Eastern Shore barrier islands.
  • Throughout the Chesapeake Bay system.

Specific Spots

  • Fish structure like oyster bars, mud flats, dock pilings, grass flat edges, and channel drop-offs.
  • Juveniles use salt-marsh creeks, seagrass beds, mudflats, and open bay areas.

Summer Flounder FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Summer Flounder in Virginia?

Berkeley Gulp baits (white shrimp and swimming mullet with chartreuse jig heads), white DOA CAL soft plastics with red 2/8oz jig heads, and shrimp-tipped feather jigs. Live baits work excellently - live shrimp under split shot, finger mullet, or minnows fished on the bottom using Carolina rigs.

When is the best time to fish for Summer Flounder in Virginia?

Summer flounder fishing peaks from late spring through fall (March-November), with prime action during summer months.

How do you catch Summer Flounder in Virginia?

Dr.ift slowly and bounce lures along the bottom, or anchor near structure and pitch baits within a few feet of cover. Focus on deeper channels during higher tides and shallow flats during lower tides. When you feel the bite, wait 3-4 seconds before setting the hook to ensure the fish has the bait in its mouth.

What do Summer Flounder eat?

Carnivorous ambush predators feeding on decapod shrimp, mysid shrimp, weakfish, Atlantic silversides, hermit crabs, and various invertebrates. During summer they primarily consume amphipods, while winter diets focus more on shrimp.

Where do Summer Flounder live in Virginia?

Found along Virginia's Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia to Florida. They inhabit the benthic zone in coastal waters and estuaries.

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