Turbot

Identification

The turbot is a large flatfish with an almost round, diamond-shaped body. The upper (eyed) side is brown to grey-brown with dark and light spots, excellently camouflaged on the seabed. Distinctive are the bony tubercles scattered across the upper side — this separates it from brill. The eyes are on the left side. Turbot can reach 100 cm and weigh over 20 kg.

Behavior & ecology

Turbot is a bottom-dwelling predator that buries itself in sand or gravel and ambushes prey. It shoots upward at great speed to grab passing fish — an active hunter despite its flat shape. Turbot feeds on small flatfish, sand eels, sprat, and shrimp. Adults live on sandy and gravel bottoms at 20 to 80 meters depth.

Fishing techniques

Catching turbot requires targeted techniques:

• Boat fishing with baitfish: Live or dead small flatfish or sand eels on a running bottom rig. Fish close to the bottom on sand and gravel banks.
• Drifting: Slow drifting over suitable grounds with baitfish just above the bottom.
• Shore fishing: Young turbot are occasionally caught surf fishing, but targeted shore catches are rare.

In the Netherlands

Turbot is one of the most prized flatfish for its firm, white flesh. In the North Sea, turbot is fished both commercially and recreationally. Sport fishing catches occur mainly during boat fishing on the North Sea, with the best chances in summer months over sandy grounds off the coast.