Species guide

How to catch Pacific sanddab

Citharichthys sordidus

#0576

Stylized 2D illustration of Pacific sanddab
#0576SaltwaterGame FishSaltwaterNorth AmericaPacific

The Pacific sanddab is a common flatfish found along the Pacific coast. It has a mottled body and is a popular target for anglers due to its good eating qualities. This species is a predator that hunts small marine animals on the seafloor.

Where they live

Found in saltwater along the Pacific coast of North America, from shallow waters down to depths around 550 meters. Prefers sandy or muddy bottoms where it can easily camouflage and hunt.

Typical size

Up to about 41 cm

What they eat

  • small squids
  • small fish
  • gammarids (small crustaceans)
  • ostracods (seed shrimp)
  • gastropods (snails)
  • nematodes

Best baits

  • small squid strips
  • minnows
  • shrimp

Best lures

  • small jigs
  • soft plastic grubs
  • sinker rigs with bait

How to fish for them

  • bottom fishing
  • drift fishing
  • anchored bait fishing

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