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Megrim, Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis

Introduction: The Megrim is a real rarity and usually only encountered on the north west coast.  A small fish, you will be lucky to catch one > 450 grams (1 lb) as suggested by the current specimen weights . Best bet is the northern coasts and offshore sand bank and mud marks from Mayo up and around to Antrim, although they have been taken as far south as Cork. Any deep water under a sea cliff is often an optimal mark.  If you do catch an odd flatfish, bear in mind that it could be the even rarer Four Spotted Megrim, similar except for the four spots which are located near the tail (false eyes).

Boat tactics: Standard flatfish tackle including ragworm offered on a set of 1/0 or 2/0 hooks in a pennel rig is the ideal option.  They are relatively small flatfish and tend to be caught offshore in deeper water over sand and mud. A watch lead stirring up the mud may help, and will all the bells and whistles associated with flatfish.

Shore tactics: A north western mark might throw up an odd one, in winter, in deep water and over mud.