Yellowtail Flounder

About the Yellowtail Flounder

The Yellowtail Flounder is a prized flatfish, easily recognized by its distinctive yellow caudal (tail) fin and matching yellow pectoral fins. Its upper side, which varies from olive-brown to reddish-brown, is often adorned with scattered rusty red or yellowish spots. This right-eyed flounder possesses a relatively small mouth and a smooth body, contrasting with the rougher texture of some other bottom dwellers. Its underside is typically a clean white. These characteristics help anglers distinguish it from other flounder species.

Source: FishBase & iNaturalist

Habitat

Yellowtail Flounder are classic bottom dwellers, preferring soft substrates of sand, mud, or a mix of both. They are typically found in cooler waters, often at depths ranging from 120 to 270 feet (37 to 82 meters). Anglers will find them concentrated in areas with these preferred bottom types, especially near structural changes or depressions.

Distribution

This popular flatfish is found in the cool waters of the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the Grand Banks off Newfoundland and Labrador southwards to the waters off Chesapeake Bay. Its presence is most notable along the shelf waters of New England and Atlantic Canada.

Behaviour

Yellowtail Flounder are opportunistic bottom feeders, primarily preying on a variety of invertebrates such as polychaete worms, amphipods, shrimp, and other crustaceans. They will also occasionally consume small baitfish like sand lance and capelin, especially when available. These flatfish are relatively sedentary, typically remaining on or near the bottom, but they do undertake seasonal migrations to deeper waters for spawning. While not highly migratory in a broad sense, local movements are influenced by temperature and food availability.

Edibility

★★★★★

Yellowtail Flounder is highly regarded as excellent table fare, celebrated for its delicate, sweet flavor and firm, white, flaky flesh. It cooks beautifully whether steamed, fried, microwaved, or baked, making it a versatile and delicious choice for any angler's dinner table.

Lure suggestion

For Yellowtail Flounder, small, natural baits presented on or very near the bottom are key. A classic two-hook flounder rig (high-low rig) baited with fresh clam strips, small pieces of squid, or seaworms is highly effective. You can also tempt them with small bucktail jigs or soft plastic baits tipped with a piece of clam or Gulp! grub, ensuring a slow retrieve with occasional pauses to allow the bait to settle on the bottom.