3 Main Live Baits for Sheepshead (And How to Use Them!)
- By: Tony Acevedo
- on
Sheepshead are some of the trickiest inshore fish to catch, but with the right bait and rig, you’ll have them chewing in no time.
Whether you’re new to sheepshead fishing or just looking to dial in your bait game, this quick guide has you covered.
When targeting sheepshead, there are three live baits I always turn to: fiddler crabs, sand fleas, and shrimp. Each bait has its pros and cons, but when rigged correctly, they’ll draw some serious attention from these striped bait stealers.
Here’s the quick breakdown:
- Fiddler Crabs: My go-to choice for sheepshead. If they’re available, you’re in business.
- Sand Fleas: Great backup and easy to catch yourself with a rake or pick up fresh at a bait shop.
- Shrimp: A classic option, but be ready to deal with bait stealers. Fresh is always better than frozen!
Of course, bait is only part of the equation—you need the right rig to make it work.
Want to see exactly how I rig these baits and the tackle I use? Watch the full video! I’ll walk you through everything step-by-step and share some extra tips to help you land more sheepshead.
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Tight lines,
Tony
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As a inshore charter captain here in fla that primarily bottom fishes your information is very good but one important aspect that I see alot of you guys fail to mention is tides. Tides play a important part in catching fish, when the water is moving there is going to be a certain period where the bite is going to be on fire nearly every cast. I prefer and have best luck on a out going tide as it sucks all the little crabs and bait fish off the flats and are carried with the strong moving water. During this period the fish know it’s dinner time. People ask me what the best time of day is to catch fish, I tell them any time as long as the water is moving. Fish the tides and you will catch more fish.
Thank you for the feedback Geoffrey! We discuss tides quite often in our Insider content.
Excellent primer for a saltwater fisherman like me. Thanks.
You’re welcome William!
great info !! keep them coming!!
Absolutely!
ok
Good info
Thank you for the great feedback David!
Great information Tony.
Thanks Ron!
Thanks Tony As always great info. Kids are gone now I can fish and
not untangle lines
You’re welcome Leroy!
Great information
Thanks Tony great info. Sheepshead are a tough bit and can be very picky, but all the extra work can be worth effort. Thanks
You’re welcome Jim!
Great video Tony. Thank you.
You’re welcome Bobby!