None commonly used; sometimes confused with Dover sole
Lemon sole is a right-eyed flatfish with a small head and mouth, and slimy, smooth skin. Its upper side is reddish-brown with mottled pink, orange, yellow and green tones, often showing a distinctive orange patch behind the pectoral fin. The underside is white. Adults can reach up to 60cm, though most landed are smaller.
Lemon sole inhabits stony and gravel seabeds at depths between 20–200m. It feeds primarily on worms, shrimp, and other small invertebrates. In Cornwall, the species is landed regularly, though overall stock data is limited.
Sustainability Rating
Status: Shore-based surveys suggest lemon sole populations have declined from previously high levels and may be subject to overfishing. Current stock recovery is uncertain.
Best Choice: Lemon sole landed above the minimum size (at least 25cm or 180g) from well-managed local fisheries using selective methods.
Avoid: Lemon sole from unregulated areas, below minimum size, or from fisheries lacking catch monitoring and stock data.
Culinary Uses
Lemon sole’s flesh is delicate and mild-flavoured, ideal for pan-frying, steaming, or poaching.
Its subtle taste works well with light sauces, lemon, or herb butters.
It’s commonly served whole or as fillets, making it a refined option for seasonal seafood dishes.
Best Fishing Practices
Cornish lemon sole is mostly caught by demersal trawlers.
The use of selective gear and adherence to minimum size requirements helps improve sustainability.
Further monitoring and stock assessments are encouraged to safeguard future availability.
Seasonality
Available year-round, though best during spring and early summer when landings are highest and fish are in prime condition.
Supporting Local, Sustainable Seafood
While the sustainability of lemon sole stocks remains uncertain, selecting responsibly sourced fish that meet size and catch guidelines supports better fisheries management. This elegant flatfish adds value to seasonal menus and encourages a more thoughtful approach to seafood sourcing.
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