Sheepshead Fishing in Panama City Beach, Florida
Sheepshead are known for their black-and-white stripes and impressive set of teeth. In Panama City Beach, they are a popular winter and early spring target, often found around structure. Their cautious bites and bait-stealing skills make them a fun challenge for anglers looking to fill a cooler with tasty fillets.
Where to Catch Sheepshead
In the Panama City Beach area, sheepshead are commonly caught:
Around bridge pilings, docks, and piers
Near jetties and rocky areas in the pass
Inshore reefs and wrecks holding crustaceans
They feed heavily on barnacles, crabs, and shrimp clinging to structure.
Best Time to Fish for Sheepshead
| Season | Sheepshead Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Best fishing near structure during their spawn |
| Summer | Less common but still possible around reefs |
| Fall | Activity picks up again near pilings and rocks |
Peak Season: February through April
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Small jigs tipped with shrimp or crab
Bait: Fiddler crabs, live shrimp, barnacles
Leaders: 20–30 lb fluorocarbon
Technique: Fish vertically near pilings with tight lines and sharp hooks
