English Sole

Parophrys vetulus

English sole is a common flatfish species found along the shores of North Pacific Ocean. They primarily reside in subtidal and intertidal zones, making them popular target fish for pier and beach fishermen. While their fight is no comparison to a salmon or steelhead, their table fare makes up for it. These delicious fish are best served by pan fried with breadcrumb or steamed.

These fish are generally 1 to 2lb large, sometimes smaller, depending on where you are fishing. Although they tend to be small, heavy gear is needed at times if you are fishing in areas where strong current is present. If you are fishing on piers and beaches at a bay, where current is weak, then a light spinning outfit is a very enjoyable setup for these fish.

To catch English sole successfully, you need to be fishing on the bottom. A fixed weight is needed to anchor your bait either on the muddy bottom or just above it. Typical bait used for English sole include worm, shrimp, prawn, fish pieces. Jigs and small metal lures can also yield some catches occasionally.