Sheepshead Fishing in the Palm Beaches, Florida
Sheepshead are a popular winter target in the Palm Beaches area, known for their striped appearance and delicious white meat. These bait stealers hang around pilings, jetties, and rocky areas where barnacles and crustaceans are plentiful. Light tackle and finesse are key to hooking them consistently.
Where to Catch Sheepshead
You’ll find sheepshead:
Around bridges, docks, and seawalls
Near jetty rocks and inlet structures
Inshore reefs and rocky ledges
During high or moving tides
Best Time to Fish for Sheepshead
| Season | Sheepshead Activity |
|---|---|
| Winter | Best time for sheepshead fishing |
| Spring | Good around bridges and pilings |
| Fall | Pre-spawn staging begins |
Peak Season: December through March
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Small jigs tipped with bait
Bait: Fiddler crabs, shrimp, barnacles
Leaders: 20–30 lb fluorocarbon
Gear: Light spinning rods with sensitive tips
