The #1 Fish to Catch This Winter: Sheepshead
- By: Pat Ogletree
- on
- Found In: Fishing Tips, Inshore Fishing, Sheepshead, Weekly Newsletter: 01-12-25
What’s the deal with these fish that look like they’ve raided a dentist’s office for a set of dentures?
Welcome to Sheepshead Week here at Salt Strong, where we’re diving into most of what you’d want to know about these fascinating (and tasty) fish.
Sheepshead are making waves online—and for good reason. They’re not only fascinating to look at, but they’re also one of the most rewarding fish to catch during the winter months.
If you’ve been on the fence about targeting these tasty fish, we’re here to break down why they deserve a spot on your winter fishing lineup. But to get the full scoop on where to find them, how to catch them, and what makes them such a prized catch, you’ll want to check out our latest video below.
Why Sheepshead Are Worth Your Time
Let’s start with the obvious: Sheepshead are some of the best-tasting fish you’ll find inshore. Whether you’re a fan of fried, grilled, or blackened fish, their firm, white meat will have you coming back for seconds.
But it’s not just about their flavor. In the southern U.S., Sheepshead are winter warriors. While other fish like redfish, trout, and snook can get finicky during cold fronts, Sheepshead stay active, making them a reliable target when the bite slows elsewhere.
What You Need to Know About Sheepshead
Here’s a little teaser of what you’ll learn in the video:
- Where to Find Them: These fish love structure—docks, jetties, bridges—you name it. But not all structures are created equal, and there’s one key factor that will help you zero in on the best spots.
- How to Catch Them: Sheepshead are crustacean crushers, and their diet gives us some big clues about the best baits and techniques to use. Trust us, a well-placed crab or shrimp will usually work wonders.
- Why Winter is Prime Time: Sheepshead school up in predictable patterns this time of year, making them easier to locate and catch.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re looking to up your Sheepshead game, this video has everything you need to get started. From understanding their habits to choosing the right gear, we’ve packed it full of information to help you reel in more fish this winter.
So, what are you waiting for? Watch the video now and get ready to take your Sheepshead fishing to the next level.
If you’re already a Salt Strong Insider, click here to access our full library of Mini and Mastery Courses featuring tips and techniques from captains and pros. www.saltstrong.com/courses
Not an Insider yet but ready to up your game even further? Dive into our FREE fishing school at www.saltstrong.com/school/!
Tight lines,
Pat
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- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish ever trip
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STOP WASTING TIME ON THE WATER!
Do what the “SMART ANGLERS” are doing and join the Insider Club.
Here’s what you’ll receive today when you join:
- Weekly fishing reports and TRENDS revealing exactly where you should fish every trip
- Weekly “spot dissection” videos that walk you through all the best spots in your area
- Exclusive fishing tips from the PROS you can’t find anywhere else
- Everything you need to start catching fish more consistently (regardless if you fish out of a boat, kayak, or land).
As always Great info Pat
Thanks Leroy! Hope everything is going well for you!
Thanks for all the tips!
You are welcome James!
I have always wanted to catch sheepshead because unlike you pat that let everything go i love fish for dinner it saves me money on groceries and is one of the best meats that is as good for you as they come but im NO bait angler but do have some of the artificial crabs that Luke talked about in his latest video but im not looking and hunting for bait of any kind im horrible with a cast net and believe it wastes time that could be otherwise be used in catching fish plus the stink and hassel of keeping bait alive is not in my game plan either im going to give my crab lures a try and see what happens but if it is a no catcher for me then I’m done and will stick to my 3 northeast fl slam favorites reds flounder and seatrout thanks for the tips and all you do enough said
I’m with you on the live bait, I would definitely prefer artificial. They can be caught on artificial, it’s just more challenging. Give it a shot when you get back out there!
Awesome video Pat and thanks for sharing
Thanks Thomas!
Excellent…thank You.
Thanks Bill!
Great info. Thanks again
Glad you enjoyed it David!
Thanks Pat
Great info…I didn’t realize they’re unfazed by cold snaps
How about a video on how to clean them, because it’s a little different
Great suggestion Jake! I believe Luke might have a video coming out on cleaning them.
Thanks Pat. Very useful since I am heading down to SPI at the beginning of February with my kayak.
They will be waiting for you!!
I’m 65 I’ve been fishing for sheepshead my whole life. I live in north Carolina. I’ve never fished for them in winter! Where are you fishing at?
Up your way they are a summer species. Down in the Gulf States it’s a winter fish for us.
Great education! Thanks!
Thanks for watching!