by Captain Brent Gaskill

Sheepshead are known to be reliable targets in the cooler months of winter. Their aggressive feeding behavior will only increase as we move through the month of February and into the spring. The lowly sheepshead's reputation is that of a bait stealer and one that is hard to hook. Things will begin to change this month however, as they stop nibbling and begin chewing, sometimes even sucking down baits similar to a grouper strike. The best part of sheepshead fishing could be that everyone can get in on the action.

Unlike so many other styles of fishing for particular species, there are no limits on who can successfully connect with sheepshead. First, a boat isn't necessary, neither is a kayak or the need to get wet wading. While these methods and approaches work, it's certainly not mandatory. Sheepshead fishing can be as simple as driving to a bridge, pier, jetty, seawall, or dock, and dropping a line in the water. It's fishing that the everyday man can do. No fancy tackle, bait or gear is required.

Sheepshead are crustacean eaters so think crabs, shrimp, oysters, green mussels, clams, and tube worms when choosing bait. When picking a location consider areas or specific places that would concentrate their food source. Typically this means structure, which can be found in many different forms including bridge pilings and fenders, riprap lined seawalls, jetties, dock pilings, rock piles, and artificial reefs.

Choose tackle and rigs appropriate for the structure being fished. Bridge and pier gear may be similar, but can be very different than that used for casting under docks. Ask your local independently owned tackle shop for the best advice on choosing tackle for your particular situation and then buy some hooks and leads or a few dozen shrimp.

The consensus on the best hook setting techniques varies considerably depending upon who you talk to. Old timers will pull your leg and explain how you must set the hook before the fish even bite, but that’s just not true. Some fishermen believe in the magic of circle hooks while others rely on the old standard, small stout J-hooks. Either way, the jerky bass-style rip their lips off hook set does not work. If you keep twitching and jerking at every tap on the bait you will only become frustrated and never catch a sheepshead. Instead, wait until you feel the steady pull of the fish and the line moving off and then smoothly lift firmly and reel. Try it next time, it works.

On the table sheepshead make superb fare. Try fixing them with your favorite grouper recipe. With closed seasons looming, sheepshead make a great substitution that everyone can catch and enjoy.

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Capt. Brent Gaskill can be reached at 727-510-1009 or captbrent@summervacationcharters.com. View his website at www.summervacationcharters.com.