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Witch Flounder

Glyptocephalus cynoglossus

Also known as

Torbay sole, Grey Sole

IUCN status

Least Concern

About the Witch Flounder

The Witch Flounder is a distinctive right-eyed flatfish with a slender, elongated body that tapers significantly towards its small tail. Its eyed side typically displays a reddish-brown to grayish-brown coloration, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the ocean floor. The blind side is a much paler white or off-white. It possesses a relatively small mouth and smooth, almost slippery-feeling scales.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

This species prefers the cold, deep waters of the North Atlantic, typically inhabiting soft, muddy, or sandy substrates. They are often found at considerable depths, ranging from 100 meters down to over 1000 meters. These deepwater environments are crucial for their survival and feeding.

Distribution

The Witch Flounder is widely distributed throughout the North Atlantic Ocean. Its range extends from the Barents Sea and Icelandic waters, across to the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, and south along the North American coast as far as off North Carolina.

Behaviour

A true bottom-dweller, the Witch Flounder spends most of its life partially buried in the soft seabed, relying on camouflage to ambush prey and evade predators. It primarily feeds on a diet of small benthic invertebrates, including polychaete worms, various crustaceans, and small mollusks. While generally slow-moving, it can make quick bursts to capture food or escape danger. Spawning usually occurs in the late spring to early summer in deeper offshore areas.

Edibility

★★★★★

Witch Flounder is highly regarded for its delicate, pure white flesh and mild flavor. It cooks up flaky and moist, making it an excellent choice for a variety of culinary preparations, from baking to pan-frying.

Lure suggestion

To target Witch Flounder effectively, anglers should focus on presenting bait directly on or very close to the seabed in deep water. High-low rigs or standard bottom rigs weighted to maintain contact with the bottom are ideal. Strips of fresh squid, clam, or small pieces of oily fish like mackerel are excellent bait choices, appealing to their bottom-feeding nature.