Flounder Fishing in Bradenton, Florida
Flounder are a favorite among Bradenton inshore anglers due to their excellent table quality and ambush-style strikes. These flatfish lie hidden on sandy or muddy bottoms, waiting to pounce on passing bait. While they aren’t as abundant as other species year-round, fall brings a notable spike in flounder activity throughout local passes and nearshore waters.
Where to Catch Flounder
Flounder in the Bradenton area are commonly caught:
Along sandy drop-offs and grassy edges in Sarasota Bay
Around docks, bridges, and seawalls in the Manatee River
Near passes and beaches, especially in the fall
They prefer to stay tight to the bottom and feed on shrimp, small baitfish, and crabs, making a slow presentation key to success.
Best Time to Fish for Flounder
| Season | Flounder Activity |
|---|---|
| Fall | Excellent – best time to target flounder during migration |
| Winter | Good – can still be caught in deeper holes and around structure |
| Spring | Fair – some scattered fish in back bays and flats |
Peak Season: October through December
Tackle & Tips
Rods & Reels: Light to medium spinning gear
Line: 10–20 lb braid or mono with 20–30 lb leader
Bait: Live shrimp, finger mullet, mud minnows, or soft plastics on jigheads
Techniques: Slow-drag jigs or bait along the bottom, especially near current breaks and sandy holes
