Flounder

     The Flounder, or Paralichthys albigutta, is one of the most peculiar fish in the ocean. What makes the Flounder so strange is the fact that it is flat. What you see in the picture on the left is actually the whole flounder, there is nothing on its back. The Flounder is a brown fish usually with two eyes on the front of its body. Another characteristic of the Flounder is three spots in a triangular shape on its body. The average weight of Flounder is 2-4 pounds. The largest Flounder ever recorded weighed 20.9 pounds. 
     Flounder is also a peculiar fish when it comes to catching them. These are one of the most difficult fish to land in the boat. When fishing for Flounder live bait is the best choice of bait. Crab meat, cut fish, and live shrimp all work but the best option is live minnows. When putting the minnow on as bait, attach the hook through its lips so it can swim freely with its body. Put a weight on the line about two feet up from the hook, allowing the minnow to have some free line. When you feel a flounder bite it is important not to jerk the rod too quickly. Flounder like to play with their food before they decide to swallow it. Give the Flounder plenty of time to swallow before you try to set the hook. 
     Like the Red Drum, Flounder are commonly found near grassy shores and docks. Another commonality between the Red Drum and Flounder is the need to be quiet when fishing. Another hotspot for flounder is in the inlet. Be aware that when fishing in the inlet you need to constantly check your depth finder to see how deep the water is. It is important to let out enough line so the fish can swim on the bottom, where Flounder live. 
     They may not look like much, but Flounder have plenty of good meat to feed the family. Here is a recipe courtesy of 
http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/808/Baked-Fillet-Of-Flounder106893.shtml


Ingredients:


8 flounder fillets
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons water
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese


Instructions:


Place fillets in long baking dish. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and other ingredients. Bake in 400 degree oven for 10 minutes. 

Pour sauce over fish and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons cheese. Return to oven and bake 10 minutes more. 

For Sauce: Melt butter. Stir in flour. Add milk. Add cheese.