Starry Flounder

While Ocean City, Maryland, is renowned for its summer flounder (fluke) fishery, targeting starry flounder provides a unique challenge and a chance to diversify your catch. These flatfish are less abundant than fluke, but they can be found in the Sinepuxent and Assawoman Bays, particularly during the cooler months. Focus your efforts from late fall through early spring, before the water temperatures rise significantly. A good strategy is to target the muddy bottom areas near the Route 50 bridge or along the channels leading to the Ocean City Inlet. Local anglers often have success using a two-hook bottom rig baited with small pieces of bloodworm or clam. A helpful tip: starry flounder tend to prefer slightly deeper water than fluke, so try drifting in areas where the depth is 8-12 feet. Be aware of the strong tidal currents in the inlet area, and use enough weight to keep your bait on the bottom. While starry flounder aren't a primary target for most anglers, their presence adds an interesting dimension to the Ocean City fishery.