Scophthalmus maximus - Turbot

A turbot of 3 kg (approx. 7 lb) in shallow water

Taxonomy

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Pleuronectiformes

Family: Scopthalmidae

Masters of camouflage able to change colour to blend in with the sea bed, turbot are essentially flatfish of the deeps. Only occasionally are small turbot up to 8lb (3.5kg) or so caught by angling from the shore.

These are slow-growing fish and can live for up to 40 years. A 20lb (14kg) turbot is a real specimen, although commercial fishermen have landed fish of 40lb (18kg) and more. In 1981, a turbot weighing 24lb was caught off Swansea and holds the Welsh rod-caught record. Bigger turbot are certainly out there to be caught.

Turbot feed on fish, and sand eels are a particularly important part of their diet; they will also eat squid, prawns and molluscs.

These fish are often caught near wrecks, where they are often found feeding on the sand and gravel flats in the lee of the hull.

A turbot photographed in deep water A powerful boat rod is necessary when fishing areas with strong currents, and a heavy lead of 1lb (0.5kg) or more may be necessary to keep the bait on the bottom. A strong nylon trace (at least 50lb breaking strain) is advisable, although some anglers prefer to use a wire trace to avoid the risk of the trace fraying against the wing of the kite or being cut by its sharp teeth. A 4/0 to 8/0 hook is recommended.