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Caught a Southern Flounder Inshore in Savannah
Southern Flounder Fishing in Savannah
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The Southern Flounder is a remarkable flatfish species native to the coastal waters of the southeastern United States, including Savannah, Georgia. As a member of the Paralichthyidae family and Pleuronectiformes order, these unique fish are perfectly adapted for their bottom-dwelling lifestyle with both eyes positioned on the left side of their body. - Southern Flounder typically measure between 12-33 inches and weigh 1-4 pounds. - Their preferred habitats include inshore waters, channels, and river mouths where they can ambush prey from the bottom.
Fishing Charter by Captain Zachary Holick in October
Meet your Captain Zachary Holick
- Unforgettable Fishing Adventures in Savannah, GA
Summary
Our early morning fishing charter around Tybee Island-Wilmington Island waters proved productive for Southern Flounder. The clear skies gradually gave way to building clouds as we employed effective bottom fishing techniques in Savannah's productive inshore waters. Captain Zach's local knowledge of structure and current flow paid off when James landed a nice keeper Southern Flounder. The morning trip timing worked perfectly, allowing us to wrap up before the afternoon rain moved in. If you're looking for a productive Friday September charter targeting flatfish in Savannah, our 3-Hour Inshore trips offer the perfect opportunity to experience what makes fishing these waters so rewarding.
Fishing Charter with Zachary Holick – Rates & Booking
Captain Zachary Holick of Captain Zach's Fishing Charter offers Friday September trips targeting the productive Tybee Island-Wilmington Island waters. Our 3 Hour Trip – Inshore (AM) gives you the perfect window to target Southern Flounder and other inshore species before afternoon weather patterns develop. We provide all necessary tackle and equipment, focusing on bottom fishing, casting with lures, and live bait techniques that consistently produce results in these waters. Early morning departures maximize your chances at success while ensuring comfortable fishing conditions.
Highlights of this Inshore Fishing Trip
This trip showcases the productive bottom fishing opportunities around Savannah's Tybee Island-Wilmington Island areas. We focus on structure-rich zones where current flow creates ideal conditions for flatfish like Southern Flounder. Our local knowledge of these waters means we can adapt techniques based on conditions, employing a mix of bottom fishing approaches, lure casting, and live bait presentations.
The morning departure gives anglers the advantage of calmer waters and active feeding periods. Even with approaching weather, we were able to put James on a quality Southern Flounder – testament to how productive these inshore waters can be when fished with proper techniques. Our specialized approach to targeting structure and understanding seasonal movements of flatfish makes this trip ideal for anglers looking to add Southern Flounder to their catch list.
Local Species Insights: Southern Flounder
Southern Flounder are ambush predators that thrive in Savannah's inshore waters, particularly around Tybee Island-Wilmington Island. These flatfish prefer areas with structure and current flow where they can lie camouflaged on the bottom waiting for prey. Our bottom fishing techniques work particularly well, allowing baits to move naturally along the bottom where these fish are hiding.
The fall season can be particularly productive for Southern Flounder in Savannah as they begin their movement toward deeper waters. Our knowledge of these seasonal patterns helps us target the right areas at the right time. The species responds well to both artificial presentations and live bait, giving anglers flexibility in their approach. When you hook into one, you'll appreciate their strong, determined fight – making them a rewarding target for anglers of all skill levels.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
For your trip with Captain Zach's Fishing Charter, simply arrive at our Savannah meeting point ready for an enjoyable day on the water. Our boat comfortably accommodates small groups while providing all the necessary equipment for targeting inshore species. Morning departures typically begin early to maximize prime fishing conditions, so we recommend being well-rested and prepared for changing weather conditions.
We provide all fishing gear, licenses, and knowledge needed for success. Wear weather-appropriate clothing, bring sun protection, and consider a light jacket for early mornings or approaching weather. A small cooler for beverages is welcome, and we'll help take care of your catch. Our focus on safety, comfort, and putting you on fish ensures a quality experience on Savannah's productive waters.
Fishing in Savannah: Southern Flounder
The Southern Flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma) is a fascinating flatfish belonging to the Paralichthyidae family within the order Pleuronectiformes. This species is distinctive for having both eyes positioned on the left side of its body, allowing it to lie flat on the ocean floor while maintaining vigilant watch for prey or predators. In Savannah waters this September, these ambush predators are particularly active as they prepare for their seasonal migrations.
Southern Flounder Overview
Southern Flounder are prized gamefish along the southeastern Atlantic and Gulf coasts. These masters of camouflage can change their coloration to match surrounding substrate, making them nearly invisible when lying in wait for prey. Anglers target them for both their sporty fight and excellent table fare, with Savannah's inshore waters providing ideal habitat.
Southern Flounder Habitat and Distribution
These flatfish thrive in estuarine environments, particularly around Tybee Island and Wilmington Island waters near Savannah. They prefer muddy or sandy bottoms in coastal bays, sounds, rivers, and tidal creeks. Southern Flounder are tolerant of various salinities, allowing them to move between freshwater rivers and saltier coastal waters. In fall, they typically migrate toward ocean inlets and offshore waters for spawning.
Southern Flounder Size and Weight
Adult Southern Flounder typically range from 12 to 33 inches in length, with weights between 1 and 4 pounds. Trophy specimens can reach the upper end of this range, though most caught in inshore waters around Savannah tend to be in the 15-20 inch range. The species grows relatively quickly in their first few years of life.
Southern Flounder Diet and Behavior
As ambush predators, Southern Flounder bury themselves in bottom sediment with only their eyes exposed, waiting for suitable prey to pass by. Their diet consists primarily of small fish like mullet, menhaden, and anchovies, along with shrimp and other crustaceans. They're most active during changing tides when water movement brings prey within striking distance.
Southern Flounder Spawning Season
In Georgia waters, Southern Flounder typically spawn during late fall and early winter. As water temperatures drop below 65°F, adults begin migrating toward deeper offshore waters. Females release eggs that are fertilized externally, with larvae developing in ocean waters before eventually making their way back to estuaries and inshore areas as they mature.
Southern Flounder Fishing Techniques
The most effective method for targeting Southern Flounder in Savannah is bottom fishing with live bait or artificial lures. Live finger mullet, mud minnows, or shrimp rigged on a fish-finder or Carolina rig work exceptionally well. Artificial options include scented soft plastics on jigheads, bounced slowly along the bottom. In September, anglers around Savannah find them concentrated near channel edges, creek mouths, and structures where current creates natural ambush points. Patience is key—work your presentation slowly and feel for the distinctive thump of a flounder strike.
Southern Flounder Is It Good to Eat?
Southern Flounder is considered one of the finest eating fish available, prized for its mild, sweet flavor and firm white flesh. The meat has a delicate flake that holds together well with various cooking methods. Baked, broiled, or pan-seared with light seasonings allows the natural flavor to shine. They're also nutritionally valuable, being high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while remaining relatively low in mercury compared to other predatory fish.
Southern Flounder Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Southern Flounder?
A: Live finger mullet, mud minnows, and shrimp are top natural baits. For artificial options, scented soft plastic jigs in white, chartreuse, or pink bounced slowly along the bottom produce consistent results in Savannah waters.
Q: Where can I find Southern Flounder near Savannah?
A: Target creek mouths, channel edges, and structures around Tybee Island and Wilmington Island. Look for areas with current flow over sandy or muddy bottoms, particularly during moving tides.
Q: Is Southern Flounder good to eat?
A: Absolutely. Southern Flounder is considered premium table fare with mild, sweet white flesh that works well with numerous cooking methods. Their firm texture holds up well to grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
Q: When is the best time to catch Southern Flounder?
A: In Savannah, fall (September-November) is prime time as flounder begin their migration toward deeper waters. Early morning and evening hours during moving tides typically produce the best results.
Q: What size Southern Flounder can I keep in Georgia?
A: Georgia regulations require Southern Flounder to be at least 14 inches total length, with a daily bag limit of 10 fish per person. Always check current regulations before your trip as they may change.
Q: Do Southern Flounder put up a good fight?
A: While not known for long runs, Southern Flounder offer a unique fight with strong headshakes and determined resistance. Their flat body creates substantial water resistance, making even medium-sized specimens feel larger than they are.
