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Senegalese sole

Solea senegalensis

Senegalese sole© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Senegalese sole (Solea senegalensis) is a flat, brown‑spotted fish prized for its delicate, flaky flesh. It inhabits sandy‑muddy coastal bottoms of the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean, making it a popular target for light‑tackle anglers seeking a tasty table fish.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Soleidae

Max Size

60 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

12-100m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

June to September

Best Time

Dusk to night

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Senegalese sole

  • Use light line (4–8 lb test) and a 6‑7 ft medium‑light spinning rod
  • Fish over sandy or mud flats using a small sinker and a soft‑plastic jig or live bait such as shrimp or sandworms
  • Drift or slowly retrieve the lure close to the bottom, keeping the bait just above the substrate
  • Work during low‑light periods when soles are most active and blend into the seabed

Top Fishing Locations for Senegalese sole

Ria Formosa

Portugal
beginner75% Very Common

Protected lagoon system with extensive sandbanks; ideal habitat for Senegalese sole and popular among local anglers.

Best: May–September

Bay of Biscay (Brittany coast)

France
intermediate65% Common

Cold Atlantic currents bring nutrient‑rich waters; sandy flats host abundant sole populations.

Best: June–August

Gulf of Lion

France
intermediate60% Common

Mediterranean shelf with fine sand and eelgrass beds; a hotspot for flatfish including Senegalese sole.

Best: April–October

Cádiz Coast

Spain
beginner70% Very Common

Extensive sandy beaches and estuarine mouths create perfect spawning grounds for sole.

Best: May–September

Northwest Sardinia (Alghero area)

Italy
intermediate55% Common

Clear Mediterranean waters with broad sandy bottoms; a renowned destination for sole anglers.

Best: May–September

Agadir Coast

Morocco
intermediate50% Common

Atlantic shoreline with deep‑water sandbars; strong sole presence year‑round.

Best: March–November

Saloum Delta (near Dakar)

Senegal
intermediate45% Occasional

River‑estuary system feeding into the Atlantic; rich in juvenile and adult sole.

Best: September–November

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Senegalese sole

Recommended Equipment

Rod6‑7 ft medium‑light spinning rod, fast action
Line4‑8 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic grub, small jig, or small surface plug
TechniqueBottom fishing with a light sinker and slow retrieve

Best bait: Fresh shrimp, sandworm, or small sand eel