You can definitely catch flounder in the winter. In fact, winter can be just as productive as the spring and summer months, as long as you know the right timing and locations to target them.
During the winter, flounder are in their spawning season. This means that they are actively moving and searching for suitable spawning grounds. While some flounder may stay inshore, many will migrate offshore to spawn. Therefore, if you want to catch flounder during the winter, you may have to venture further out to sea.
Finding the right location is key when fishing for winter flounder. Look for areas that provide suitable spawning grounds such as sandy or muddy bottoms with a good amount of structure like wrecks, reefs, or rock piles. These areas attract flounder as they offer protection and a food source.
When it comes to timing, it’s important to understand the behavior of flounder during the winter. They are more active and feed more aggressively during certain times of the day, typically around dawn and dusk. It’s a good idea to plan your fishing trips accordingly, focusing on these prime feeding periods.
In terms of fishing techniques, there are a few methods that can be effective for catching winter flounder. One popular technique is bottom fishing with live or dead bait. Flounder are ambush predators, so using bait that mimics their natural prey such as small fish, shrimp, or squid can be very effective. Make sure to use a rig that keeps the bait close to the bottom, where flounder are likely to be hiding.
Another technique that can be successful is jigging. By using a jig with a soft plastic or a bucktail, you can imitate the movement of a baitfish and entice flounder to strike. Experiment with different colors and sizes to see what works best in your fishing area.
It’s also worth mentioning that winter flounder can be caught from both shore and boat. If you’re fishing from shore, look for areas with access to deeper water and structure. If you’re fishing from a boat, consider drifting along likely spots or anchor up near structure.
Personal experiences and tips:
I have had success catching winter flounder during the colder months. One memorable trip was when I went offshore to a wreck that was known to attract flounder during the winter spawning season. We used a combination of live minnows and squid as bait, and within a few hours, we had a nice catch of flounder. The key was to find the right structure and present the bait close to the bottom.
Another tip I can offer is to pay attention to the tides when fishing for winter flounder. Flounder are often more active and feed more aggressively during incoming or outgoing tides. Plan your fishing trips accordingly and focus your efforts during these tide changes for better success.
Winter can be a productive time to catch flounder, especially if you know where and when to target them. Look for suitable spawning grounds, use the right bait and techniques, and pay attention to tide changes. With a little patience and persistence, you can have a successful winter flounder fishing outing.