Other Names: Sole, Flounder, California Sole, Brill
Sustainable Fishing Methods: Scottish Seine, Bottom Trawl
Monterey Bay Seafood Watch Rating: Best Choice
Biological Information: Petrale are a right eyed flatfish, meaning their left eye migrates to the right side of their head in early life. They reside in deeper waters along the continental shelf in sandy and muddy bottoms. They can be found in schools along with other species such as English Sole and Sand Dabs. They primarily feed on cephalopods like octopus and crustaceans. Petrale reach sexual maturity at about 5 years of age. Petrale Sole has a delicate, mild flavor with a medium firm texture and a small flake. It is a moist fish that is vulnerable to become mushy if overcooked.
Sustainability: NMFS surveys report Petrale stocks in this area to be healthy and growing. Petrale is quick to mature and currently fishing pressure locally is minimal. The Petrale Sole caught by scottish seine are considered a best choice by Monterey Bay Seafood Watch due to strict fishing regulations and a rebounding population.