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Summer Flounder and Spotted Weakfish Charter
Summer Flounder and Spotted Weakfish in Steinhatchee
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The Paralichthys Dentatus belongs to the order Pleuronectiformes and family Paralichthyidae. It typically measures between 15 and 37 inches in length, with a weight range from 1 to 5 lbs. Habitat: onshore, nearshore, offshore. - Summer Flounder are a flatfish species with both eyes on the left side of the head. - They live on the seafloor, lying on their blind side facing the open water column. - Grayish-brown coloration with lighter spots helps them blend with the seabed.
Fishing Charter by Captain Chris Davy in August
Meet your Captain Chris Davy
- A trip worth remembering - 1 rule: just have fun!
Summary
Captain Chris Davy of Southern Fried Charters on Thursday June offers guided fishing charters targeting summer flounder and spotted weakfish in Steinhatchee's productive nearshore waters. This hidden gem along Florida's Nature Coast provides excellent year-round fishing opportunities with clear conditions and diverse species. Our experienced local guides use proven techniques including baitcasting and light tackle methods to help anglers land quality catches. Whether you're after the challenging fight of spotted weakfish or the table fare of summer flounder, Steinhatchee delivers consistent action for both novice and experienced anglers. Book your charter fishing adventure and discover why this Taylor County destination attracts anglers from across the Southeast.
Fishing Charter with Captain Chris Davy – Rates & Booking
Captain Chris Davy of Southern Fried Charters on Thursday June provides 3/4 day fishing trips targeting summer flounder and spotted weakfish in Steinhatchee's productive waters. Our licensed guide brings local knowledge of Taylor County's best fishing spots, with all tackle and gear included for your convenience. Trip duration runs approximately 6 hours with morning and afternoon departure times available. Contact us directly to check availability and secure your preferred date—advance booking recommended during peak summer months.
Highlights of Steinhatchee Fishing Charter
This charter focuses on the diverse inshore and nearshore fishing opportunities around Steinhatchee, where summer flounder and spotted weakfish provide consistent action throughout the warmer months. The area's grass flats, oyster bars, and river mouths create ideal habitat for these species. Captain Chris utilizes both light tackle and baitcasting techniques depending on conditions and target species.
Recent trips have produced quality catches including 17-18 inch summer flounder and 18-inch spotted weakfish, with multiple fish per angler common during productive outings. The Steinhatchee region's relatively light fishing pressure compared to other Florida destinations means better opportunities for both quantity and size.
Local Species Insights: Summer Flounder
Summer flounder thrive in Steinhatchee's varied bottom structure, from sandy flats to rocky ledges near the coast. These flatfish are ambush predators that bury themselves in sand or mud, waiting for baitfish, shrimp, and crabs to pass overhead. During summer months, they move into shallower nearshore waters where anglers can target them effectively with live bait or jigs. The species responds well to both drift fishing over structure and anchored presentations near drop-offs. Local anglers find the best action during moving tides when flounder become more active feeders.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
Your Steinhatchee fishing charter includes all necessary tackle, bait, and safety equipment aboard a comfortable fishing boat designed for inshore and nearshore fishing. Captain Chris provides instruction for anglers of all skill levels, from basic casting techniques to advanced bottom fishing methods. The boat accommodates small groups for a personalized experience, with coolers available to store your catch. Departure times vary based on tides and weather conditions, with the captain providing specific meeting instructions upon booking confirmation.
Fishing in Steinhatchee: Spotted Weakfish and Summer Flounder
Summer Flounder (Paralichthys dentatus), also known as fluke, belongs to the order Pleuronectiformes and family Paralichthyidae. This distinctive flatfish species is easily recognized by its unique body structure with both eyes positioned on the left side of its head, allowing it to lie flat on the seafloor while watching for prey above. In Steinhatchee waters this June, these adaptable predators provide excellent fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.
Summer Flounder Overview
Summer flounder are among the most sought-after flatfish species along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Their ability to change color and pattern to match their surroundings makes them master ambush predators. Anglers value them for their fighting ability when hooked and excellent table fare, with firm white meat that's perfect for various cooking methods.
Summer Flounder Habitat and Distribution
These flatfish inhabit sandy and muddy bottoms from shallow inshore waters to depths exceeding 400 feet. Around Steinhatchee, they're commonly found over grass flats, near oyster bars, and along channel edges where they can easily ambush passing prey. They prefer areas with moderate current flow and structure that provides both camouflage and feeding opportunities.
Summer Flounder Size and Weight
Summer flounder typically range from 15 to 37 inches in length, with weights between 1 and 5 pounds for most recreational catches. Larger specimens can exceed these averages, with trophy fish occasionally reaching weights over 8 pounds in prime habitat areas.
Summer Flounder Diet and Behavior
As opportunistic predators, summer flounder feed primarily on small fish, shrimp, crabs, and marine worms. They bury themselves in sand or mud with only their eyes exposed, waiting for prey to pass within striking distance. Most active during dawn and dusk periods, they also feed heavily during moving tides when baitfish are displaced from cover.
Summer Flounder Spawning Season
Spawning occurs in offshore waters during fall and winter months when water temperatures drop. Adults migrate to deeper waters for reproduction, with larvae eventually settling in shallow nursery areas. During summer months, mature fish are actively feeding in nearshore waters to build energy reserves for the spawning migration.
Summer Flounder Fishing Techniques
Effective techniques include drift fishing with live bait such as mud minnows or finger mullet, bouncing jigs along the bottom, and using Carolina rigs with strip baits. In Steinhatchee during summer months, anglers find success fishing over grass flats and sandy areas adjacent to structure. Light to medium tackle works well, allowing anglers to feel the subtle strikes characteristic of this species.
Summer Flounder Is It Good to Eat?
Summer flounder ranks among the finest eating fish available to recreational anglers. The meat is firm, white, and mild-flavored with a delicate texture that works well for baking, frying, or grilling. High in protein and low in fat, flounder provides excellent nutritional value with minimal fishy taste that appeals to even selective eaters.
Summer Flounder Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for summer flounder?
A: Live mud minnows, finger mullet, and shrimp are top choices. Strip baits cut from squid or other fish also work well when drifted along the bottom.
Q: Where can I find summer flounder near Steinhatchee?
A: Look for them over grass flats, sandy areas near oyster bars, and along channel edges where they can ambush prey. Areas with moderate current flow are particularly productive.
Q: Is summer flounder good to eat?
A: Absolutely. Summer flounder has firm, white meat with a mild flavor that's excellent for various cooking methods. It's considered one of the best eating fish available to recreational anglers.
Q: When is the best time to catch summer flounder?
A: Early morning and late afternoon during moving tides typically produce the best results. Summer months offer excellent fishing as these fish actively feed in nearshore waters.
