Flounder fever: when does the season open in texas? set your hooks for success
What To Know
- Use a Carolina rig or a jig head to present the bait.
- Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, flounder season in Texas offers an exciting opportunity to experience the thrill of catching this delicious flatfish.
- Do I need a fishing license to fish for flounder in Texas.
Anglers eagerly await the opening of flounder season in Texas, a prime opportunity to reel in this prized flatfish. The exact dates vary each year, but the season typically opens in the spring and runs through the fall.
Flounder Season Dates for 2023
- Upper Coast (Sabine Lake to San Bernard River): March 1 – October 31
- Central Coast (San Bernard River to Matagorda Ship Channel): May 1 – October 31
- Lower Coast (Matagorda Ship Channel to Rio Grande): April 15 – October 31
Where to Find Flounder in Texas
Flounder are found in both bays and the Gulf of Mexico. They prefer shallow, sandy or muddy bottoms near oyster reefs, seagrass beds, and jetties. Popular fishing spots include:
- Galveston Bay
- Matagorda Bay
- Corpus Christi Bay
- Padre Island National Seashore
- Port Aransas
How to Catch Flounder
- Bait: Flounder are opportunistic feeders and will take a variety of baits, including live shrimp, mullet, or minnows. Artificial lures such as jigs and topwaters can also be effective.
- Tackle: A medium-action spinning rod with a 20-pound test line is suitable for most flounder fishing. Use a Carolina rig or a jig head to present the bait.
- Technique: Flounder often lie motionless on the bottom. To entice them, slowly drag the bait along the sand or bounce a jig off the bottom.
- Time of Day: Flounder are most active at dawn and dusk, but can be caught throughout the day.
Regulations and Limits
- Bag Limit: The daily bag limit for flounder is 5 fish per person.
- Size Limit: The minimum size limit for flounder is 14 inches in length.
- License: A valid Texas fishing license is required.
Tips for Success
- Use live bait: Live bait is more enticing to flounder than artificial lures.
- Fish near structure: Flounder tend to congregate around oyster reefs, seagrass beds, and jetties.
- Be patient: Flounder are not known for their speed. Wait patiently for them to take the bait.
- Set the hook gently: Flounder have soft mouths. Set the hook gently to avoid tearing it.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Flounder Season
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, flounder season in Texas offers an exciting opportunity to experience the thrill of catching this delicious flatfish. By following these tips and adhering to the regulations, you can enjoy a successful and memorable fishing adventure.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the best time to fish for flounder in Texas?
A: Flounder are most active at dawn and dusk, but can be caught throughout the day.
Q: What is the best bait to use for flounder?
A: Live shrimp, mullet, or minnows are all effective baits for flounder. Artificial lures such as jigs and topwaters can also be used.
Q: What is the minimum size limit for flounder in Texas?
A: The minimum size limit for flounder in Texas is 14 inches in length.
Q: How many flounder can I keep per day in Texas?
A: The daily bag limit for flounder in Texas is 5 fish per person.
Q: Do I need a fishing license to fish for flounder in Texas?
A: Yes, a valid Texas fishing license is required to fish for flounder in Texas.
