Rex Sole

Rex sole is a delicate flatfish prized for its sweet, mild flavor and tender texture. Found throughout the northern Pacific from Baja California to the Russian coast and the Sea of Japan, rex sole typically inhabit sandy or muddy bottoms at depths up to 3,000 feet, though they're most commonly found between 200 and 1,600 feet. These elegant fish can be identified by their elongated, oval-shaped body and distinctively long pectoral fin—a feature that has earned them the alternate name "threadfin sole." Rex sole are slow-growing fish that can live up to 24 years and reach about two feet in length, though average commercial catches are considerably smaller.

In the kitchen, rex sole offers fine, firm flakes with a subtle sweetness that appeals to both seafood enthusiasts and those just beginning to explore fish. The delicate flavor pairs beautifully with light preparations—a simple pan-sear in butter with lemon and fresh herbs allows the natural qualities of the fish to shine. Rex sole is also excellent baked with white wine and capers or broiled with a light breadcrumb topping. Nutritionally, rex sole provides an excellent source of lean protein along with selenium and other essential minerals, all while remaining low in fat and calories.

While rex sole is harvested year-round along the Pacific coast, the highest catches occur from February through May when the fish are most abundant in accessible waters. The majority of commercial harvest comes from Alaska, though Northern California fishermen also land rex sole as part of the mixed-species groundfish fishery. The stocks are not overfished, and trawlers harvest rex sole from sandy and muddy bottoms with minimal lasting impact on ecosystems. Strict federal management ensures sustainable harvest levels, making rex sole a responsible choice for consumers seeking locally caught flatfish.