Late Season Wreck Flounder / Fluke Fishing

RODS

A medium-heavy to heavy spinning or conventional rod is ideal for wreck fishing. You need enough backbone to pull a fish out of the structure without getting snagged, but also enough sensitivity to feel the subtle bites of fluke. A rod in the 6'6” to 7' range with a fast action tip is a solid choice.

REELS

Pair your rod with a high-quality reel capable of holding plenty of line and delivering smooth, consistent drag. Reels like the Shimano Stradic or Penn Spinfisher are excellent options, providing both durability and performance in saltwater conditions. Braided line in the 20-30 lb test range is preferred for its sensitivity and strength, allowing you to feel every bite and keep control of your fish in tight quarters.

LINE

Braided line is the preferred choice for wreck fishing due to its strength, sensitivity, and thin diameter. A 20-30 lb test braid is ideal, providing the necessary power to handle strong fish and the ability to cut through water with minimal resistance. The sensitivity of braid allows you to feel even the lightest bites, which is essential when targeting flounder in a structure-rich environment.

LEADER

A fluorocarbon leader in the 20-30 lb test range is recommended for wreck fishing. Fluorocarbon is highly abrasion-resistant, which is crucial when fishing around sharp edges and debris found on wrecks. Its low visibility in water also makes it less likely to spook wary fish. A leader length of 2-4 feet is generally sufficient, providing enough separation between your braided main line and the terminal tackle without being too cumbersome to handle.

JIGS

Bucktail jigs are the standout option among artificial lures when wreck fishing for fluke. These versatile lures can be tipped with a strip of squid or soft plastic trailer to increase their effectiveness. Colors like white, chartreuse, and pink often work well, mimicking the appearance of small baitfish. Slow, deliberate jigging over the wreck, with pauses to allow the lure to hover just above the structure, can trigger aggressive strikes from lurking flounder.

SOFT BAITS

Soft plastic baits, such as Gulp! Swimming Mullets and Berkley PowerBait Grubs, are also effective when fished on a jig head. These baits offer a lifelike action and scent that can draw fish out of the wreckage. Experiment with different sizes and colors to find what works best under the day's conditions.

LIVE BAIT

Natural bait is often the go-to choice for wreck fishing. Squid strips, spearing, and live minnows are highly effective, appealing to the natural diet of fluke. These baits are tough enough to withstand the structure-rich environment of wrecks and can be rigged on a simple hook or used to tip a jig for added attraction.

TERMINAL TACKLE

High-quality circle hooks in the 3/0 to 5/0 size range are ideal for flounder, as they promote a solid hook-up while minimizing the chances of gut-hooking the fish. Sinkers are another critical component, and the right weight will depend on the depth of the wreck and the current. Generally, 2-6 oz bank sinkers are sufficient, but having a variety of weights on hand allows you to adjust to changing conditions.

TACKLE ACCESSORIES

Always carry a quality pair of fishing pliers for quickly removing hooks and cutting line if needed. A sturdy landing net is also crucial, as it helps you safely land your catch without damaging your gear or the fish.

SAFETY

Additionally, be mindful of the weather and sea conditions. Wrecks can be located in deeper, open waters where the weather can change rapidly. Check the forecast, wear appropriate clothing, and always let someone know your fishing plans before heading out.

Anchoring and Positioning

The first step to successful wreck fishing is proper anchoring and positioning. You want to position your boat so that you're fishing directly over or just up-current from the wreck. This allows your bait to drift naturally toward the structure, mimicking the movement of prey. A common mistake is anchoring too far away, which can result in missed opportunities as your bait drifts out of the strike zone.

Bait Selection

Natural bait is hard to beat. Squid strips, spearing, and live minnows are all top choices for fluke. These baits not only appeal to the fish's natural diet but also have the added advantage of being able to withstand the rigors of wreck fishing. Artificial baits like Gulp! Swimming Mullets or Berkley PowerBait Grubs can also be highly effective, especially when jigged slowly over the wreck.

Jigging Techniques

Jigging is one of the most productive techniques for wreck fishing. A slow, deliberate lift-and-drop motion works best, allowing your bait to hover just above the wreck, where flounder are most likely to strike. It's important to maintain contact with the bottom, as these fish are often lying in wait just a few inches off the structure.

When jigging, consider using bucktail jigs tipped with a strip of squid or a soft plastic trailer. The added movement and scent can entice even the most hesitant fluke to bite. Vary your jigging speed and intensity to match the conditions and fish activity—sometimes a subtle twitch is all it takes, while other times a more aggressive jigging action is needed to provoke a strike.

Varying Your Drifts

Drifting over the wreck multiple times from different angles can increase your chances of finding fish. Fluke may be holding on different parts of the wreck depending on current, tide, and other factors. By varying your drift lines, you cover more of the wreck, which helps identify the most productive areas. Keep an eye on your fish finder to monitor the structure and adjust your drifts accordingly.