2023 Recreational Flounder Season Announced

Article by: Mark Mayo

2023 Announcement

The N.C. Division of Marine Fisheries has announced the 2023 recreational flounder season will run from September 15th to 29th. The season’s regulations stipulate a one-fish per person per day limit and a 15-inch minimum size limit. Harvesting flounder with a Recreational Commercial Gear License will not be permitted.

The restrictions are implemented to keep the fishery within the approved recreational quota, which for 2023 is set at 114,315 pounds. This quota includes an adjustment for the 2022 season’s overage, where the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) was exceeded by 56,340 pounds.

The Division is discouraging catch-and-release practices after the one-fish limit is reached or when the season is closed, as well as high grading, due to the contribution of such practices to the total removals from the fishery and the overage in the TAC.

The regulations for the commercial southern flounder season will be announced separately.

What is a Southern Flounder (Paralichthys lethostigma)?

The Southern Flounder, scientific name Paralichthys lethostigma, is a species of flatfish native to the coastal waters of the western Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. They are a popular species for commercial and recreational fishing due to their size and the quality of their meat.

Characteristics of the Southern Flounder include:

1. Body Structure: Like all flatfish, Southern Flounders have a unique body structure where both eyes are located on the same side of their head, allowing them to lay flat on the ocean floor.
2. Color: They are typically brownish-gray on their upper side with a white or lighter-colored underbelly, aiding in camouflage from both predators and prey.
3. Size: They are one of the larger species of flounder, often reaching lengths of 15 to 20 inches, but some specimens have been known to reach up to 30 inches.
4. Habitat: Southern Flounder inhabit a variety of environments, including brackish waters, estuaries, and near-shore coastal waters. They are bottom-dwellers and use their natural coloration to blend with sandy or muddy substrates.
5. Diet: They are carnivorous, with a diet primarily composed of fish and invertebrates such as shrimp and crabs.

The Southern Flounder is subject to commercial fishing regulations to manage and preserve their populations due to concerns over overfishing.

Mark Mayo

I research and report on fishing, fishing gear/equipment, survival topics, and marketing for outdoors related businesses. I assist here on CB Fishing as the editor. Articles may contain AI researched content. All content is published for education and entertainment purposes only, NOT LIFE, HEALTH, SURVIVAL, FINANCIAL, BUSINESS, LEGAL OR ANY OTHER ADVICE. Learn more about Mark Mayo