Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Flounder, with their flat, oval-shaped bodies and distinctive appearance, are often described as “ugly but yummy.” But considering people desire them for their taste and not their looks, it’s easy to see why flounder are such a prized catch along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Their impressive ability to blend seamlessly into their surroundings also makes fishing for them a thrill. 

From 2017 to 2019, Alabama’s flounder population was at its lowest point in decades. Thankfully, regulations were put into place to allow more flounder to reproduce more often. The limit was reduced to five flounder per day per angler, down from 10 previously, and the minimum length increased from 12 to 14 inches. Also, anglers aren’t allowed to keep flounder during the month of November.

Catching flounder demands patience, skill, and knowledge of their behaviors and preferred habitats. They’re usually caught in brackish or saltwater bays, inlets, coves, river mouths, and estuaries. No wonder our area is such a hotspot for reeling in this elusive flatfish. Anglers typically use medium-heavy spinning or casting rods and high-quality reels since flounder offer a spirited fight. Bait selection usually includes jigs, slick lures, and live minnows. 

Other anglers prefer the gigging method used under the cover of darkness when flounder are most active and visible. There’s just something more challenging about navigating the coastal shallows using handheld lights to spot dinner. Gigging demands a steady hand and keen eyesight, as flounder are masters of camouflage in their sandy surroundings. Experienced gigging enthusiasts often develop a keen intuition honed through years of practice, allowing them to anticipate the movements of flounder and adapt their approach.

Along the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, an extraordinary natural phenomenon known as a Jubilee offers a surreal experience for those lucky enough to catch one. This event, occurring sporadically and mostly during the warm summer months, sees a sudden influx of various bottom dwelling marine creatures such as flounder, crabs, and shrimp, moving into shallow waters near the shore. This abundance allows for an unexpected bounty, where people can easily collect these sea creatures by with gigs and/or nets. The cause of Jubilees is believed to be a combination of environmental factors, including low oxygen levels in deeper parts of the bay, which drive the marine life to the shallower waters. For the communities along the Eastern Shore, a Jubilee not only provides a unique opportunity for gathering seafood but also serves as a cherished local tradition that brings families and neighbors together in anticipation and celebration of this natural abundance. Remember, if you get in a jubilee the catch limits still apply.

Flounder fishing in Alabama is a year-round pursuit, but Spring is particularly productive as they migrate through coastal waters during spawning runs. Renowned for its delicate flavor and versatility in cooking, you can find everything you need to prepare flounder at Rouse’s. And if you don’t have time to fish for it, no doubt they’ll have a fresh batch waiting for you as well. There’s also no shortage of flounder on the menus of restaurants in the area, so enjoy!