Species guide
How to catch California flounder
Paralichthys californicus
brackishsaltwatergame fishParalichthyidae
The California flounder is a flatfish known for its broad, short body and impressive size, reaching up to 1.5 meters. It is a day hunter that feeds mainly on fish and squid. This species is a popular game fish prized by anglers along the Pacific coast.
Where they live
Found along sandy bottoms from the surf line to depths of 183 meters, including bays and estuaries in Pacific North America. Prefers brackish to saltwater environments.
Typical size
Up to about 152 cm
What they eat
- various small fishes
- squid
Best baits
- live baitfish
- squid strips
- soft plastic baits
Best lures
- bucktail jigs
- soft plastics
- squid-imitating lures
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- drift fishing
- surf fishing
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