Flounder

Newport, NY, offers access to some fantastic flounder fishing with a short drive to the coastal bays. Flounder season typically peaks in the spring and fall as water temperatures moderate. These flatfish are bottom dwellers, so focus your efforts on sandy or muddy bottoms in relatively shallow water, typically 6-15 feet deep. Drifting with a bottom rig baited with sandworms, clams, or squid is a common and effective technique. Look for areas near channels, docks, or other submerged structures. Local knowledge is key: check with local bait shops for the best spots and recent reports. A practical tip: many anglers use a chum pot filled with ground clams or mussels to attract flounder to their fishing area. Also, be mindful of the regulations regarding size and creel limits, as they can change from year to year. Flounder fishing can be tide-dependent, with the best bites often occurring during periods of moving water.