Flounder

For a more relaxed angling experience near Island Park, consider targeting flounder in the shallow bays and estuaries. The warmer months, especially late spring and early summer, are ideal as the water warms and flounder move into these areas to feed. These bottom-dwellers are attracted to soft bottoms with plenty of marine worms and small crustaceans. A simple bottom rig baited with sandworms or clams is often all you need. Focus your efforts around channels and docks where flounder can find shelter and ambush prey. A local tip is to try fishing near the Meadowbrook State Parkway bridge, as this area tends to hold flounder. Be patient, as flounder are subtle biters. A slow retrieve and sensitive rod tip are essential for detecting their delicate strikes. The flounder population here is generally of good size, providing a rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels.