SeaAj
Best months
March–May, September–November
Where
- Sandy beaches
Best time
- Night
Conditions
- Rising tide
- Calm sea
Usual size
25–40 cm
General guidance for the Mediterranean and the nearby Atlantic; local seasons can differ.
How to catch it
Methods
- Bottom fishing
- Surfcasting
Baits
- Sea worms
The angler's tip
A night fish of sandy bottoms close to shore: small hooks with lugworm or ragworm, and short casts are often enough.
Legal minimum size
| Country | Minimum size | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Morocco | ≥ 20 cm | Source Checked 2026-10-25 |
| Portugal | ≥ 24 cm | Source Checked 2026-10-23 |
Rules change. Check the official source before you keep a fish; this table is not legal advice.
About this fish
The common sole, Dover sole, or black sole is a species of flatfish in the family Soleidae. It is one of the largest fish in the Solea genus. It lives on the sandy or muddy seabed of the northern Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea where it often partially immerses itself in the substrate. The upper side is greyish-brown while the underside is white. It grows to a maximum length of about 70 cm (28 in). The species is prized as a food fish, being caught mostly by bottom trawling on the seabed. The name "Dover" comes from Dover, the English fishing port landing the most sole in the 19th century.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to catch Common sole?
The best months are March–May, September–November. Best time of the day: Night.
What bait or lure works for Common sole?
Sea worms · Bottom fishing, Surfcasting.
What is the legal minimum size of Common sole?
Morocco: 20 cm; Portugal: 24 cm.
These are estimates, not guarantees. Always look at the sea yourself before going out, do not go alone and wear a life jacket.