Saltwater · Northern
Flatfish - Curlfin 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 deep oval-shaped body. The eyed side is yellowish or reddish brown to dark brown or black, usually with brown or grey mottling. The blind side is white and the first 9 to 12 dorsal fin rays originate here. All fins are dark in color and the dorsal and anal fins are high. The caudal fin is rounded and the lateral line has a slight curve over the pectoral fin. A long accessory dorsal branch reaches to the midpoint of the body. This species has a small mouth, with large, closely set eyes. Between the eyes is a high bony ridge with a tubercle or blunt spine at each end. There are 2-3 additional bony tubercles on the head behind the upper eye. The maxillary extends to below the anterior part of lower eye. The dorsal fin originates level with the lower corner of the mouth and there is an anal spine present. Curlfin sole are similar to spotted and hornyhead turbots, which have 4 to 6 dorsal fin rays originating on the blind side. Curlfin sole can grow up to 37 cm (15 in) in length, and 0.78 kg (1.71 lbs) in weight.