Turbot fishing

Scophthalmus maximus

About Turbot

A round, left-eyed flatfish with bony tubercles instead of scales. Lies buried on sand and gravel in shallow bays in summer and ambushes passing baitfish. Fish it from the beach in high summer, with a two-hook bottom rig baited with sandeel, ragworm or shrimp and cast onto clean sand between the weed patches. The take is a slow pull rather than a knock, and the fish often holds the bait for several seconds before it turns. It is one of the finest eating fish on the Swedish coast, and a minimum size applies, so carry a measure.

Typical size: Usually 30-50 cm, big fish over 60 cm. Record (approx.): ≈ 9 kg.

Season, time and habitat

Best season

May-Aug

Best time

Day

Habitat

Coast

Season by month

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Darker cell = more active that month. Based on the species' usual yearly rhythm.

Lures and baits that work

Ledger bait Fish the bait still on the bottom with a sinker. Common for bottom feeders; watch the rod tip for gentle bites. Check price on Amazon

Soft-plastic jig Let the jig sink to the bottom and work it with small lifts and pauses. Stay in contact with the line; takes usually come on the drop. Check price on Amazon

Trolling Pull lures behind a slow-moving boat, often with downriggers or planer boards for depth. Cover water to find the fish. Check price on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Find waters where Turbot is biting now

All regions · Browse all fish species

Common questions

When is the best time to catch Turbot?

Turbot fishing is usually best around May-Aug. The best windows in the day are usually day.

What lures and baits work for Turbot?

Effective methods for Turbot include Ledger bait, Soft-plastic jig and Trolling.

Where can you catch Turbot?

Turbot is most often found in coast. Napp shows the nearest waters and the live odds on the bite right now.