Diamond Turbot

Oceans & Range: Eastern Pacific Ocean — from the San Francisco Bay area south to Baja California and throughout the Gulf of California. Found on sandy and muddy bottom in bays, estuaries, and nearshore coastal areas in 3–150 feet. Common in Southern California bays — a frequent catch for bay anglers fishing sandy bottom.

Preferred Water Temperature: 55°F–68°F. A bay and nearshore flatfish found on sandy to muddy bottom. Very common in Los Angeles Harbor, San Diego Bay, and coastal lagoons of Southern California. Named for its distinctive diamond-shaped body outline.

Size & Weight: Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–14 inches. Maximum approximately 4 lbs. World record: 4 lbs 8 oz. A right-eyed flounder with distinctive brown spots on the eyed side and bright white on the blind side. Good table fish — mild, white meat.

Best Lures: Small swimbaits dragged slowly on sandy bottom produce catches. Small jigs near the bottom work occasionally.

Best Baits: Fresh ghost shrimp are the top bait in California bays. Pile worms produce excellent results. Small pieces of fresh squid work well. Fresh shrimp are effective. Light spinning gear with sliding sinker near sandy bottom is standard.