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Lemon sole

Microstomus kitt

Lemon sole© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Lemon sole (Microstomus kitt) is a flat, pale‑yellow fish prized for its delicate, sweet flesh. It inhabits sandy‑muddy bottoms of the NE Atlantic and is most commonly targeted in colder months. Anglers seek it for its mild flavor and steady, manageable fight.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Pleuronectidae

Max Size

65 cm

Max Weight

3 kg

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

10-200m

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Winter to early spring (December‑March)

Best Time

Early morning or dusk/night, when the fish move along the bottom

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Lemon sole

  • Use light gear and a sensitive tip to detect subtle bites on the bottom
  • Fish over soft substrates with a slow‑rolling drift or stationary jig set on the seabed
  • Employ natural baits such as sandworms or shrimp for best response
  • Keep the line taut and use a gentle, steady retrieve to encourage the sole to stay on the hook

Top Fishing Locations for Lemon sole

beginner78% Very Common

A sheltered bay on Cornwall's south coast known for abundant lemon sole in winter; easy access from the harbor and plenty of local charter services.

Best: Nov-Feb

Texel, Wadden Sea

Netherlands
beginner85% Very Common

The shallow sandbanks around Texel host large schools of lemon sole during the colder months; shallow waters make it ideal for novice anglers.

Best: Oct-Jan

Aarhus Bay (Kattegat)

Denmark
intermediate70% Very Common

Coastal waters of the Kattegat provide excellent flat sandy bottoms where lemon sole are plentiful during spring and autumn migrations.

Best: Mar-May, Sep-Oct

Stavanger Fjord (Skagerrak)

Norway
intermediate65% Common

Cold, nutrient‑rich fjord waters attract strong lemon sole populations; slightly deeper and more exposed, requiring some experience.

Best: Feb-Apr

Arcachon Bay

France
beginner60% Common

A large estuarine system on the Atlantic coast where lemon sole gather over the sandbars in winter; good infrastructure for guided trips.

Best: Nov-Jan

Gulf of Riga

Latvia
intermediate20% Uncommon

A less‑known Baltic hotspot where lemon sole are present but in lower numbers; best for anglers seeking a quiet, challenging experience.

Best: Oct-Dec

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Lemon sole

Recommended Equipment

RodLight spinning or ultralight rod, fast action (≈5‑6 ft)
Line4‑8 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic grubs, small bucktail jigs, or minnow imitations
TechniqueBottom jigging or drifting with bait on the seabed

Best bait: Sandworms, shrimp, small baitfish pieces