Flounder Fishing Competitions in Washington and Oregon: Types, Tips

by Oleg Nikitenko December 05, 2024

Flounder Fishing: Tips, Types

Flounder fishing in the Pacific Northwest is a rewarding experience, and for competitive anglers, it offers the thrill of testing your skills against the region’s finest flatfish. Washington and Oregon boast diverse coastal habitats and abundant flounder populations, making them prime locations for fishing tournaments.

This guide explores the types of flounder found in Washington and Oregon, which species are best to eat, and strategies for excelling in local competitions.

Types of Flounder Found in Washington and Oregon

The waters of the Pacific Northwest are home to several species of flounder, each with unique characteristics.

1. Starry Flounder

  • Description: Recognized by their star-like pattern and rough scales, starry flounder are common in estuaries and nearshore waters.
  • Habitat: Found in shallow flats, brackish waters, and estuaries.
  • Taste Profile: Mild flavor and flaky texture, making it a versatile option for cooking.
  • Best Locations: Puget Sound, Grays Harbor, and Columbia River estuary.

2. Pacific Sanddab

  • Description: A smaller flounder species with a delicate, buttery flavor.
  • Habitat: Prefers sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow waters.
  • Taste Profile: Considered one of the tastiest flounders due to its rich flavor.
  • Best Locations: Ocean Shores, Alki Beach, and Willapa Bay.

3. Dover Sole

  • Description: Often called a flounder but technically a flatfish, Dover sole is prized for its tender meat.
  • Habitat: Found in deeper waters but accessible nearshore during summer.
  • Taste Profile: Sweet and mild, making it ideal for steaming or pan-searing.
  • Best Locations: Puget Sound and the Washington coast.

4. Rock Sole

  • Description: Known for its firm, white meat, rock sole is a popular catch among local anglers.
  • Habitat: Found near rocky bottoms and sandy areas.
  • Taste Profile: Firm texture and slightly sweet flavor.
  • Best Locations: Hood Canal and Cape Disappointment.

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Top Flounder Fishing Competition Locations in WA & OR

1. Puget Sound, WA

Puget Sound offers a mix of estuaries, sandy flats, and rocky bottoms, making it a top spot for flounder fishing competitions.

  • Best Locations: Alki Beach, Edmonds Pier, and Possession Bar.
  • Tips: Fish during tidal changes to target feeding flounder.

2. Columbia River Estuary (WA & OR)

The estuary provides a perfect mix of fresh and saltwater, attracting flounder year-round.

  • Best Locations: Ilwaco Marina (WA) and Hammond Marina (OR).
  • Tips: Use live bait like shrimp or minnows to mimic natural prey.

3. Grays Harbor, WA

Grays Harbor is a hotspot for flounder competitions, offering abundant starry flounder and sanddab populations.

  • Best Locations: Westport Jetty and Ocean Shores.
  • Tips: Target sandy bottoms near drop-offs for larger flounder.

4. Willapa Bay, WA

Known for its rich biodiversity, Willapa Bay is a favorite among local anglers.

  • Best Locations: Tokeland Marina and Leadbetter Point State Park.
  • Tips: Focus on areas with sandy flats during incoming tides.

Gear Essentials for Pacific Northwest Flounder Fishing

1. Rods and Reels

  • Rod: A 7-9 foot medium-light spinning rod for casting distance and sensitivity.
  • Reel: Saltwater spinning reels like the Penn Battle III 3000 ($120) for durability.

2. Fishing Line

  • Braided Line (15-20 lbs): High sensitivity for detecting subtle bites.
  • Fluorocarbon Leader (12-15 lbs): Reduces visibility in clear waters.

3. Bait and Lures

  • Live Bait: Shrimp, sandworms, and minnows are ideal for flounder.
  • Cut Bait: Strips of squid or mullet add scent and visual appeal.
  • Artificial Lures: Soft plastics like Gulp! Swimming Mullet work well for jigging.

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Strategies to Win Flounder Fishing Competitions

1. Scout the Location Beforehand

  • Identify sandy flats, estuaries, and structures where flounder are likely to congregate.
  • Use a fishfinder to locate drop-offs and feeding zones.

2. Timing is Key

  • Fish during tidal changes when flounder are most active.
  • Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for competition success.

3. Master the Right Rigs

  • Carolina Rig: Keeps bait near the bottom where flounder feed.
  • Drop Shot Rig: Suspends bait just above the bottom, ideal for rocky areas.
  • High-Low Rig: Targets multiple depths to increase your chances of a bite.

4. Use Fresh or Live Bait

  • Fresh bait like shrimp or sandworms is irresistible to flounder.
  • Change bait frequently to keep it lively and appealing.

5. Stay Mobile

  • If you’re not getting bites, move to another spot.
  • Covering more ground increases your chances of finding active flounder.

FAQs About Flounder Fishing in WA & OR

What’s the best flounder to eat in the Pacific Northwest?

  • Dover sole is considered the best for its tender, sweet meat. Pacific sanddab is also a favorite for its rich, buttery flavor.

Do I need a license for flounder fishing?

Yes, a saltwater fishing license is required in both Washington and Oregon.

What’s the legal limit for flounder in WA & OR?

The daily limit for flatfish, including flounder, is 10 fish per person in Washington. Always check local regulations for updates.

Can I fish for flounder year-round?

Yes, but the best time to catch flounder is during spring, summer, and early fall when they move closer to shore.

Celebrate Your Catch with Delicious Recipes

After a successful day on the water, enjoy your flounder with these premium seafood options:

Learn More About Flounder Fishing

For additional tips, tutorials, and seafood inspiration, visit the Global Seafoods YouTube Channel .

Tags: flounder fishing WA, best flatfish in OR, flounder fishing tips, tournament strategies, Pacific Northwest fishing spots, flounder recipes

Final Note: Flounder fishing competitions in Washington and Oregon combine skill, strategy, and excitement. With the right knowledge, gear, and preparation, you can dominate these tournaments and enjoy the rewards of catching these delicious flatfish. Good luck, and happy fishing!

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