Summer Flouder

Summer Flounder (Fluke)

Summer Flounder (Paralichthys dentatus) are an aggressive flounder (or flatfish), also known as “fluke”, that migrate into Rhode Island waters during the spring and summer months. They are a very unique looking fish, sporting sharp teeth in a slanted mouth, and a dark brown body covered with lighter brown spots.

Fluke are classified as a left-eyed fish, meaning both of their eyes are on the left side of their head, giving them a bit of an awkward look. They are masters of camouflage, using their flat sand colored bodies to blend in perfectly with the ocean floor (often burying themselves) and wait patiently to ambush their prey. 

These fish can grow to impressive sizes, the current Rhode Island state record is 17 lbs 8 oz, caught in 1962 by a man named G. Farmer out of Warwick. Fish of this caliber are often called doormats since they are long and flat, but I consider any fluke over 10 pounds to be in the doormat status.

Sandy flat bottoms are their domain, but I have also found them feeding in rockier areas. Another added bonus is that these fish taste great, putting off four fillets of firm white meat, delicious in any fish recipe you might have on your menu. Out of all the species I fish for, fluke are the ones that I always want to learn more about.