Arrive at the jetty during high tide or just as the tide is starting to come in. Sheepshead are more active during these times, feeding on the abundance of food washed in by the tide. Early morning or late afternoon is typically the best time for fishing, as the fish are more likely to be biting.
Equipped with a medium-action spinning combo, use a sturdy 20 to 30-pound braided line, which offers the sensitivity needed to feel the subtle bites of sheepshead. A fluorocarbon leader, around 15 to 20 pounds, is essential due to the fish’s sharp teeth and the abrasive nature of the rocks. Attach a size 1 or 1/0 live bait (single).
Another rig that can work equally well is simply fishing a jighead. Try to use as light a head as possible, starting with an 1/8-ounce but having some 1/4 on if the tides are too strong.
For bait, live shrimp or fiddler crab work great. In winter dead shrimp will get it done on a completely different kind fo rig but for now we’ll get talk about targeting them in summer.
A long rod can be great because most of your fishing will be done vertically. Let your line down to the bottom and keep reeling up every few minutes until you get bit. If you don’t get bit quickly then move.
When you feel a bite, resist the urge to set the hook immediately. Allow the fish a moment to fully take the bait before giving a sharp, quick pull to set the hook securely. Once hooked, sheepshead put up a strong fight, often diving towards the rocks. Keep steady pressure on the line, reeling in consistently to avoid giving the fish any slack, which could result in it breaking free.
Fishing from rock jetties can be dangerous. The rocks can be slippery and uneven, so wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear is crucial. And don’t forget your net!
Very few people will keep sheepshead because they are so hard to clean and there is such a small amount of meat. But, if you do keep them, you can’t ask for better tasting fish. The wife of an old fishing buddy said it was her favorite fish. I don’t ever remember catching a 5 pounder but I’ve caught them in the 3 to 4 pound range. Another fish that filets out a small piece of meat for it’s size is the spadefish. Usually catch them offshore, and if you catch some, it is another great tasting fish.