Well, let me tell you, I’ve spent countless hours out on the water trying to catch flounder, and one thing I’ve learned is that water temperature plays a crucial role in their behavior. Now, I can’t speak for every species of flounder out there, but I can certainly share my experiences.
In general, the best water temperature for catching flounder tends to be between 55 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s when they seem to be most active and willing to bite. However, it’s important to note that there can be some variations in temperature preferences depending on the specific species and their habitat.
For example, Atlantic flounder, which are commonly found along the eastern coast of the United States, tend to prefer slightly cooler waters. They seem to be most active and abundant when the water temperature hovers around the lower end of that range, closer to 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if you’re targeting Atlantic flounder, you might have better luck in cooler waters.
On the other hand, Pacific flounder, which are found along the western coast of North America, tend to tolerate slightly warmer waters. They can be caught in water temperatures ranging from 60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if you’re fishing for Pacific flounder, you might want to look for slightly warmer water compared to their Atlantic counterparts.
Now, let’s talk about the flounder found in the southern waters of the United States. These guys are a bit different in terms of their temperature preferences. They are typically found in areas with warmer climates, so they can tolerate higher water temperatures. In fact, they can be caught in water temperatures as high as the low to mid-70s Fahrenheit.
Of course, these temperature ranges are not set in stone. Flounder are adaptable creatures, and their behavior can be influenced by various factors such as food availability, spawning patterns, and even local weather conditions. So, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the water temperature, but also pay attention to other factors that might impact their behavior.
In my experience, the water temperature is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to catching flounder. It’s important to consider other factors such as tide, current, structure, and bait presentation. Sometimes, even if the water temperature is within the preferred range, the flounder might not be actively feeding or in the mood to bite. So, it’s always a good idea to experiment with different techniques and locations to increase your chances of success.
If you’re looking to catch flounder, aim for water temperatures between 55 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. But remember, fishing is not an exact science, and there are always exceptions to the rule. So, get out there, enjoy the water, and see what works best for you!