Sanddab

Oceans & Range: Eastern Pacific Ocean — from the Bering Sea south to Baja California. Most abundant from Alaska south through California. Found on sandy bottom in 30–1,800 feet — primarily in 120–300 feet in California. Left-eyed flatfish (unlike most California flatfish). One of the finest-eating small flatfish in the Pacific.

Preferred Water Temperature: 40°F–55°F. A cold-water Pacific species found on sandy bottom at moderate to considerable depths. Very common off Central and Northern California in 100–300 feet. An important party boat species in California.

Size & Weight: Typically 0.5–1.5 lbs and 8–14 inches. Maximum approximately 2 lbs. World record: 2 lbs 4 oz. Among the finest-eating flatfish in the Pacific — sweet, delicate, thin fillets. Very popular in California seafood restaurants. The only left-eyed flatfish commonly caught by California sport anglers.

Best Lures: Rarely taken on lures. Small jigs occasionally produce catches at depth.

Best Baits: Fresh whole squid are the top bait — Sanddab love squid. Fresh shrimp work very well. Small pieces of clam are excellent. Multi-hook dropper rigs dropped to sandy bottom in 100–300 feet are the standard party boat approach. Catching multiple fish per drop is common.