Flounder Fishing North of Tampa Bay Coastal
Flounder are bottom-dwelling ambush predators that thrive in the sandy and muddy flats around Dunedin, Palm Harbor, and Tarpon Springs. These tasty fish are commonly caught inshore near passes, docks, and grass edges where they wait to ambush baitfish.
Where to Catch Flounder
In this region, flounder are typically found around:
Sandy drop-offs near passes and inlets
Edges of grass flats with current
Under docks and near seawalls
Oyster bars and muddy channels
Best Time to Fish for Flounder
| Season | Flounder Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Action increases around inshore edges |
| Summer | Steady bite in sandy and muddy bottom areas |
| Fall | Peak migration season, excellent fishing |
Peak Season: September through November
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Soft plastics on jigheads bounced slowly on bottom
Bait: Live mud minnows, finger mullet, or shrimp
Leaders: 15–20 lb fluorocarbon
Technique: Drag lures slowly; flounder often strike softly and require a moment before setting the hook
