East Coast Flounder Fishing Guide for Beginners: Best Locations, Gear, and Tips

by Oleg Nikitenko September 10, 2024

Flounder Fishing for Beginners on the East Coast

Flounder fishing on the East Coast is a favorite pastime for many anglers. The waters along the Atlantic coast are home to several types of flounder, making it an exciting and rewarding experience for beginners. From the sandy shores of North Carolina to the rocky coastlines of Massachusetts, the East Coast offers a variety of fishing locations for those eager to catch this prized flatfish.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about flounder fishing on the East Coast, including the best locations, gear recommendations, types of flounder you can catch, local regulations, and more. Plus, we'll show you where to buy the freshest flatfish like Dover sole and Pacific cod from Global Seafoods .

1. Types of Flounder You Can Fish on the East Coast

The East Coast is home to several species of flounder, each offering a unique fishing experience. Here are the most common types of flounder you can fish along the Atlantic coast:

Summer Flounder (Fluke)

  • Location: Found from North Carolina to Massachusetts, particularly in shallow coastal waters.
  • Size: Summer flounder can grow up to 30 inches and weigh up to 20 pounds.
  • Season: Typically fished during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall.
  • Best Fishing Method: Drift fishing with live bait like minnows or squid.

Southern Flounder

  • Location: Common in the warmer waters of the southeastern coast, from North Carolina to Florida.
  • Size: Slightly smaller than summer flounder, with an average weight of 1-5 pounds.
  • Season: Best fished in the spring and fall when the water temperatures are moderate.

Winter Flounder

  • Location: Found in the colder waters from Virginia to Maine.
  • Size: Generally smaller, averaging 1-3 pounds.
  • Season: Winter flounder are typically caught during the colder months, from late fall to early spring.

Each of these species offers a different challenge, so it's important to research the best times and techniques for the specific flounder species in your area.

2. Best Fishing Locations for Flounder on the East Coast

The East Coast provides diverse fishing spots for flounder, ranging from shallow bays to deep ocean drop-offs. Here are some of the top locations where beginners can have a successful flounder fishing trip:

Chesapeake Bay, Maryland & Virginia

  • Why It’s Great: The Chesapeake Bay is a prime spot for summer flounder, especially during the warmer months. The bay’s sandy bottoms and shallow waters are perfect for drift fishing.
  • Best Time: May through September.

Barnegat Bay, New Jersey

  • Why It’s Great: Barnegat Bay offers a mix of shallow and deeper waters, making it a popular spot for summer flounder. Its proximity to inlets and drop-offs creates ideal conditions for flounder to ambush prey.
  • Best Time: April through October.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

  • Why It’s Great: The Outer Banks are known for excellent Southern flounder fishing, with numerous inlets, marshes, and estuaries where flounder thrive.
  • Best Time: Spring and fall, particularly around incoming and outgoing tides.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

  • Why It’s Great: Cape Cod is a hot spot for winter flounder, with its cold waters providing the perfect habitat. Fishing around bridges, piers, and inshore drop-offs yields great results.
  • Best Time: Late fall to early spring.

Explore more about flatfish species like Petrale Sole and Pacific Cod at Global Seafoods.

3. Flounder Fishing Gear: What You Need and Costs

Having the right gear is essential for a successful flounder fishing experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fishing Rod and Reel

  • Rod: A medium-action spinning rod between 6-7 feet in length is ideal for flounder fishing. This rod offers the sensitivity to detect subtle bites but has enough strength to handle larger fish.
    • Recommended Brand: Ugly Stik GX2 (around $40–$60) is a reliable and affordable option.
  • Reel: A 2500-3000 series spinning reel paired with 10-15 lb braided line is recommended for flounder fishing.
    • Recommended Brand: Penn Battle II (around $100) is durable and great for saltwater fishing.

Bait and Tackle

  • Live Bait: Mullet, shrimp, and minnows are popular live bait options for flounder fishing.
  • Artificial Lures: Soft plastic lures or bucktail jigs in bright colors work well for flounder.
  • Hooks: Use size 2/0 or 3/0 circle hooks for best results.
  • Tackle Box Cost: Expect to spend around $20–$50 on basic tackle, including hooks, jigs, and swivels.

Fishing Gear Costs Summary

  • Rod and Reel Combo: $100–$150
  • Tackle and Bait: $20–$50
  • Total Estimated Cost: $120–$200

If you're looking for premium fish fillets to cook at home after a day of fishing, check out Alaskan Pollock Fillets and Lingcod Fillets at Global Seafoods.

4. Do You Need a Fishing License for Flounder Fishing on the East Coast?

Yes, you will need a fishing license to fish for flounder on the East Coast. Each state has its own regulations, but most states require a saltwater fishing license. Additionally, certain areas may have specific rules regarding flounder fishing limits.

Fishing License Requirements by State:

  • Maryland and Virginia: A recreational saltwater fishing license is required.
  • New Jersey: While a general fishing license is not required, anglers must register with the free New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program.
  • North Carolina: A Coastal Recreational Fishing License (CRFL) is required.
  • Massachusetts: A saltwater fishing permit is required.

Flounder Fishing Limits

Flounder size and bag limits vary by state, so it’s important to check local regulations before heading out. For example:

  • New Jersey: Minimum size of 18 inches for summer flounder, with a limit of 3 fish per person.
  • North Carolina: Minimum size of 15 inches for Southern flounder, with a limit of 4 fish per person.

Be sure to review the regulations in your fishing area before setting out to avoid fines.

5. Where to Buy Fresh Flounder and Flatfish Online

If you’re not able to catch your own flounder or want to enjoy other types of flatfish, you can buy high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood online at Global Seafoods. They offer a variety of premium fish, including flatfish and whitefish fillets.

Top Flatfish Products:

Explore more options in the Flatfish Collection at Global Seafoods for high-quality fish fillets delivered straight to your door.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Flounder Fishing on the East Coast

Q1: What is the best time of year to fish for flounder on the East Coast?
A: The best time to fish for flounder is during the spring and fall. These seasons offer ideal water temperatures, and the fish move closer to shore to feed.

Q2: What are the size and bag limits for flounder on the East Coast?
A: Size and bag limits vary by state. In New Jersey, for example, summer flounder must be at least 18 inches long, with a daily limit of 3 fish per person. Always check local regulations.

Q3: Can I fish for flounder from the shore?
A: Yes, flounder can be caught from shore, especially near inlets, estuaries, and piers where the fish move in to feed.

Q4: What is the best bait for flounder fishing?
A: Live bait such as mullet, shrimp, and minnows are highly effective for flounder. Soft plastic lures that mimic small fish also work well.

Q5: Where can I buy fresh flounder or flatfish online?
A: You can buy fresh flounder and other flatfish like Dover Sole and Lingcod at Global Seafoods.

Conclusion: Start Your East Coast Flounder Fishing Adventure Today

Flounder fishing on the East Coast offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience for both beginners and seasoned anglers. With the right gear, fishing locations, and knowledge of local regulations, you can make the most of your fishing trip and bring home a delicious catch. Whether you're fishing in the shallow waters of Chesapeake Bay or the estuaries of the Outer Banks, flounder fishing is a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy fresh seafood.

For the best flatfish to cook at home, explore Global Seafoods and discover premium fillets like Dover sole and Pacific cod.

Back to News
Go to full site