Sheepshead
Archosargus probatocephalus
FR Sheepshead · ES Sargo chopa · PT Sargo-ovelha
Also known as: Convict FishSargo ChopaSargo-choupaSargo chopaSargo-ovelha
Reef/KelpShoreBoat
GamefishReef
Score
—
Prime time
Warm months; daylight structure fishing
Depth
0–15m
Platform
Shore & boat
Season
JanMarJunSepDec
Peak Jan–DecGood Apr–Nov
Depth range
0–15mShallow
Best fishing techniques
Float fishing60%
Preferred seabed
SandMixed
Findr bio
Daylight dock-dweller with a thing for barnacles. Bring fiddler crabs and I'm yours...
How to catch
Favourite hangouts
EstuaryPier harborRocky shoreWreck reef
Recommended baits
CrabPrawnsShellfishWorms
Diet
BarnaclesMusselCrabBivalves
Effective techniques
Bottom FishingLight Rock FishingRunning Ledger
Gear
Best times
DayDawnDuskMid floodEbbing tide
Barnacle-crunching human-like teeth — unsettlingly close to a smile.
Field notes
Where to find them
Gulf and southeast Atlantic docks, jetties, reefs
Where they hang out
Nearshore structure, shallow to moderate depth
Prime time
Warm months; daylight structure fishing
Tide game
Moderate; fish structure harder on moving current
What they're into
Crab, shrimp fished tight to structure
Temperature vibe
Prefers 16–24°C
Fave weather
Moderate seas workable
Fun fact about me
Barnacle-crunching human-like teeth — unsettlingly close to a smile.
Dinner material?
8/10Solid dinner choice
Play by the rules
Bag/size limits common — check state rulesState fisheries agency (e.g. FWC, TPWD)
Looking after them
Least Concern