Identification
Blackback and Winter Flounder refer to the same species, Pseudopleuronectes americanus. Adults normally carry both eyes on their right side and have a small mouth. Larvae begin with an eye on each side before the flatfish transformation.
Size and Weight
A reported maximum total length of 64 cm is about 25.2 inches. Massachusetts lists an 8-pound, 2-ounce record, slightly heavier than the older 3.6 kg species summary. The record weight and maximum length come from separate reports.
Habitat and Natural Food
Winter Flounder lives close to the bottom and feeds on small invertebrates. Spawning occurs during winter and spring in shallow coastal waters; eggs settle onto bottom habitat rather than remaining freely suspended. Coastal spawning and nursery areas are important parts of its life cycle.
Bait and Fishing Methods
A nearshore bait fishery is documented for this species. Presentations should account for its small mouth and bottom-feeding habit. Seasonal access, size limits and possession rules vary, so the species’ cold-season spawning period should not be mistaken for an automatically open fishing season.
Built for Very Cold Water
Winter Flounder has specialized antifreeze proteins that limit ice growth in its body. This adaptation helps it tolerate seawater near its freezing point and fits a life cycle that includes winter spawning.
All Lakes With Blackback
Browse all lakes and reservoirs with confirmed Blackback records in our database, listed alphabetically.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.