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Portuguese sole

Dagetichthys lusitanicus

Portuguese sole© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Portuguese sole (Dagetichthys lusitanicus) is a flatfish found along the Iberian Atlantic coast and into the Mediterranean. It is prized for its delicate, white flesh and is a popular table fish in Portugal and Spain. Anglers target it in shallow sandy or muddy bottoms where it ambushes prey.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Soleidae

Max Size

40 cm

Habitat

marine, brackish

Depth Range

0-125m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

April‑October (spring through early autumn)

Best Time

Early morning or late evening hours when tides are moving

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Portuguese sole

  • Use a light jig or soft plastic bait close to the bottom and let it sit; the sole will bite as it ambushes prey
  • Fish during moving tides; the current brings food to the flatfish and increases bite activity
  • Target shallow sand or mud flats, especially near estuary mouths where brackish water attracts them
  • Keep line tension low; soles are soft‑mouth fish and a gentle hook set avoids pulling the fish off the bottom

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Portuguese sole

Recommended Equipment

RodLight to medium spinning rod, fast action
Line4‑8 lb (1.8‑3.6 kg) test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic minnow or jig, or small surface lure for drifting
TechniqueBottom fishing with a slow‑roll rig, drifting or casting near sandy flats and estuaries

Best bait: Live shrimp, small sand eels, or cut bait such as mackerel strips