Skip to main content

Arrowtooth Flounder

Species Identification

Back to Species Guide
Arrowtooth Flounder

Arrowtooth Flounder

Atheresthes stomias

Also known as: Arrowtooth; Turbot

Flatfish Native Abundant

Size & Weight

Average Length 20.4"
Max Length 34.0"
Average Weight 4.0 lbs
Max Weight 15.0 lbs
Lifespan 27 years

Habitat

Depth Range 60 - 3000 ft
Water Temp 38-46°F

Sandy/muddy bottoms; deeper water; continental shelf and slope

Behavior

Spawning Season Winter-spring

Migration: Some seasonal depth movement

Diet: Fish (primary); shrimp; squid

Fishing Tips

PNW Season Year-round
View season chart →

Techniques: Commercial trawling; occasionally recreational deep

Best Bait: Cut bait; fish

Eating Quality

Edibility Poor (unless processed)

Fresh: soft/mushy; Processed: acceptable

State Records

Washington
6.65
lbs

Fun Facts

Large teeth; soft flesh problematic; abundant but underutilized commercially

How to Identify

Large teeth (arrowtooth); eyes on left side; brownish coloration; soft flesh; deeper water species; often found at 300-1000+ feet

Official Resources

Sources: WDFW; NOAA
Change History (Last updated Feb 02, 2026 at 10:33 AM)
Date Change Old Value New Value
Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM Updated Avg Length 20.4

Report Incorrect Information

Minimum 10 characters

We won't share your email

Suggest an Edit

Edit the fields below with your suggested changes. Only modified fields will be submitted.

Paste a direct HTTPS link to a .jpg, .png, .gif, or .webp image

Minimum 10 characters

Link copied to clipboard!