Flounder Fishing in Clearwater / St. Pete Beach, Florida
Flounder are ambush predators known for their camouflage and strong strikes. In Clearwater and St. Pete Beach, they’re caught near sandy bottoms, docks, and rock piles. They offer great table fare and can be caught year-round, especially in fall.
Where to Catch Flounder
Flounder are commonly caught:
Along sandy edges of grass flats
Under docks and bridge pilings
Near jetty rocks and seawalls
Slow presentations along the bottom are key to triggering bites.
Best Time to Fish for Flounder in Clearwater / St. Pete Beach
| Season | Flounder Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Fish move back inshore—good action |
| Summer | Fair—look for fish near deeper docks |
| Fall | Excellent—peak migration and feeding |
Peak Season: Fall
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Soft plastic jigs, curly tails, paddle tails
Bait: Finger mullet, mud minnows, shrimp
Leaders: 15–25 lb fluorocarbon
Gear: Light spinning tackle with sensitive rod tip
