What's the difference?
It seems like we are just trying to confuse you sometimes! Flounder is one of America’s favorite fish. It's called Flounder on the menu's and you've heard you can catch it all along the Atlantic and around the Gulf of Mexico. So what is the Fluke everyone is talking about?
Here's the scoop, Flounder and Fluke are just different variations of the same fish. That said, there are three main variations of Flounder in our fishing area so read more if you are interested in being able to spot the differences.
Fluke vs. Flounder: Summing Up
Here’s a brief summary of what makes each of the three common ones special:
Summer Flounder
Summer Flounder is the one also known as “Fluke” or “Northern Flounder.”
Its head faces left when you hold it up.
It has ringed, eye-like spots near its tail and on its back.
It lives from North Carolina to Maine.
Winter Flounder
Winter Flounder is also known as “Blackback Flounder.”
It's head is on the right when you hold it up.
It is much darker than other Flounders.
It lives in the waters from Maryland to Labrador in Canada.
Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder is “left-facing” and looks similar to Summer Flounder (Fluke).
It has dark patches instead of ringed, eye-like spots.
It prefers warmer waters than most Flounder species.
It lives from Maryland to Florida and in the Gulf of Mexico.
These are the main three varieties of Flounder in our fishing area and there are some other Flounders out there too. Hopefully, we’ve managed to clear up some of the confusion around these delicious Flatfish or at least prepare you for your future run on Jeopardy!
As with so many things in fishing, the best way to learn is to get out there on a tour with us soon and bag one yourself! Flounder is one of the fish you catch on "Inshore" trips which are the best for kids and first timers. Check out our Inshore vs. Off Shore post for more information on types of trips we offer or contact us to book a trip!
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