Seattle Flounder (Sand Dab) Fishing Charters
Fun Action, Big Smiles
Not every fishing trip has to be about chasing trophies — sometimes it’s about steady bites, laughter, and simple fun on the water. That’s where Flounder (Pacific Sand Dabs) shine.
Flounder are Puget Sound’s most abundant bottom fish, offering fast-paced, light-tackle action that’s ideal for kids, families, or anyone who just wants to catch a lot of fish.
With Fish Finders Private Charters, you’ll be fishing calm Seattle waters just minutes from downtown — often catching fish within sight of the city skyline.
Year-Round Flounder Season & Availability
One of the best parts of Flounder fishing is that it’s available year-round, especially productive in the warmer months (April–October).
- Abundant Species: Pacific Sand Dabs are small, plentiful flatfish that live along sandy bottoms from 40 to 120 feet deep.
- Winter Blackmouth: From November through April, juvenile Chinook (called Blackmouth) remain in Puget Sound year-round, offering a winter fishery when most other salmon seasons are closed. (Winter seasons may vary)
- Flexible Trips: Flounder charters are offered as short, private trips (around 3½ hours) — perfect for families or guests looking for a fun, low-pressure experience.
No experience necessary — if you can hold a rod, you can catch Flounder.
How We Fish for Flounder
These trips are simple, relaxed, and rewarding:
- Drift Fishing: We drop light rigs to the bottom and drift slowly over sandy flats.
- Constant Bites: Most anglers get a nibble nearly every time their bait hits bottom.
- Catch & Release or Keep: There’s no size minimum and a 10-fish daily limit per person — plenty for a fresh Seattle dinner if you choose to keep a few.
Their mild, sweet flavor makes Sand Dabs great pan-fried or baked — though many visitors prefer to catch, photograph, and release.
Scenery & Wildlife
Flounder trips might stay close to shore, but the views are still pure Pacific Northwest. You’ll enjoy:
- Calm waters and city views — perfect for families or first-timers
- Harbor seals, eagles, and sea lions often nearby
- The Seattle skyline, Mt. Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains in the background
These are relaxed, family-oriented outings with plenty of wildlife and photo ops along the way.
Trip Details
- Departures: Shilshole Bay Marina, Ballard — 10 minutes from downtown Seattle
- Trip Length: ~3½ hours (flexible departure times)
- Group Size: Private trips for up to 6 guests
- What’s Included: All rods, reels, bait, tackle, fish cleaning, and bags (licenses available onboard)
- Season: Year-round (best April–October)
Guided by Seattle’s Most Friendly Captains
- Perfect for Beginners: Kids and newcomers quickly gain confidence with so many bites and easy catches.
- Relaxed Pace: Shorter trips, calm waters, and friendly instruction make it fun for all ages.
- Local Experience: Our captains are lifelong Seattle anglers who know the best sandy flats and current patterns for consistent action.
- Memorable Mornings: These are the kind of trips where families laugh, cheer, and leave with stories — and maybe a few tasty fillets.