Inshore

Fluke

Paralichthys dentatus

Avg. Weight

4.0 lbs

Avg. Length

19+ inches

World Record

22.7 lbs

Found In

26 Destinations

About Fluke

Fluke — properly called Summer Flounder — are the premier flatfish of the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Distinguished from Gulf/Southern Flounder by their larger size, left-facing orientation (both eyes on the left side), and distinct spot patterns with 5 large ocelli (eye spots) on the upper body. Fluke are ambush predators that lie buried in sand with only their eyes exposed, launching upward to grab prey. Their camouflage ability is remarkable — they can change color to match the bottom within minutes. Excellent table fare with sweet, firm white flesh.

Identification & Appearance

Flat, oval body with both eyes on the left (top) side. Brown to olive-green on the eyed side with numerous spots and 5 distinct large ocelli (eyespots). Blind (bottom) side is white. Large mouth with sharp teeth. Can change body color to match surroundings.

Male vs. Female

Females grow significantly larger than males. Males rarely exceed 18 inches, while females can reach 30+ inches. Most doormat fluke are female.

Size, Weight & Records

Average catch is 16-22 inches (2-5 lbs). Quality "doormats" exceed 24 inches and 6+ lbs. Trophy fluke top 10 lbs and 30+ inches. The world record is 22 lbs 7 oz, caught in Montauk, New York in 1975.

Seasonal Availability

Peak Season Good Fair Off Season

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Popular Bait & Fishing Methods

Best Techniques

Drifting with bucktails (white, chartreuse, or pink) tipped with a strip of squid, fluke belly, or Gulp! Swimming Mullet along sandy bottom in 20-80 feet of water is the standard technique. "Fluke rigs" (a sliding sinker rig with a long fluorocarbon leader and wide-gap hook) baited with a live minnow and strip bait combination is deadly. Drifting over structure transitions — where sand meets rocks, mud, or wrecks — concentrates fish. Slow your drift with a drift sock for better bottom contact.

Recommended Tackle

Medium spinning rod (6'6"-7 ft), 3000-4000 reel, 15-20 lb braid, 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader, bucktail jigs (1/2-2 oz depending on depth/current), wide-gap hooks (3/0-5/0).

Regulations & Bag Limits

Size limits vary by state (typically 18-21 inches). Bag limits of 2-8 fish depending on state and season. New Jersey, New York, and Massachusetts have some of the most closely managed fluke fisheries.

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current rules with your charter captain or state wildlife agency before fishing.