Saltwater · Northern
Flatfish - Flathead Sole
Ocean regulations can change in-season. Confirm with the 2026 Ocean Sport Fishing Guide and CDFW before you fish.
Species group
FLATFISH
Season
Open All year
Depth limit
None
Daily bag limit
10 fish of each species, limit 20 fish in combination
Minimum size
None
Gear restrictions
May be taken only on hook-and-line or by hand. Any number of hooks and lines
Identification
A right-eyed flatfish with a very flat, oval body shape. The eyed side is dark olive brown to reddish gray-brown, sometimes with dusky blotches. The blind side is white and translucent in places. Both dorsal and anal fins tend to have dusky blotches, but not regular banding (see starry flounder). This species has an angular caudal fin with the longest rays at the center. The lateral line is nearly straight with a low arch over the pectoral fin. There is no accessory dorsal branch, but an anterior branch runs almost to the rear edge of the upper eye. Flathead sole have a medium to large mouth with one row of sharp conical teeth in both jaws. The maxillary extends to below the middle of the lower eye. The eyes are large with a narrow ridge and 1 - 2 rows of scales between them. This species has a strong anal spine. Pores are present below and behind the lower eye, but may be hard to see. The flathead sole is very similar to the petrale sole, but the upper jaw of the petrale sole has two rows of teeth and the lower jaw has a rounded rear ridge. Flathead sole can grow up to 22 inches in length, and 3.4 lbs in weight. Maximum age is at least 27 years for females and 30 years for males.