Sheepshead are the convict striped fish that live on structure: bridge pilings, jetties, dock posts and oyster bars. They have human looking teeth built for crushing barnacles and crabs, and a bite so subtle that most anglers miss it entirely until a captain shows them what to feel for. Once you hook one they pull hard and dirty, straight back into the structure.
They are also excellent on the table, with firm white flakes that make the cleaning table worth the effort.
When to Fish
Winter and early spring are the peak, roughly December through March, when sheepshead gather around structure to spawn. They are caught around the bay through the rest of the year in smaller numbers.
What to Expect
Fiddler crabs or shrimp on a small strong hook, fished tight against pilings and rock. Light line, close attention, and a captain telling you when to set. Often caught alongside black drum, redfish and speckled trout.
Year-Round
Perfect for redfish, speckled trout, and more in the calm waters of the Choctawhatchee Bay.
Rates Per Boat
Includes up to 4 passengers
Extra Passengers $50
Includes Gear + License
Questions about sheepshead fishing in Destin
Seasons, technique and what you can keep, plus which bay trip to book.
When is sheepshead season in Destin?
Winter and early spring, roughly December through March, when they gather around structure to spawn. That is also when the bay is quietest, so it is one of the best value trips of the year.
How do you catch sheepshead?
Fiddler crabs or shrimp on a small strong hook, fished tight to bridge pilings, jetties and dock posts. The bite is famously light, so most of the skill is knowing when to set the hook.
Are sheepshead good to eat?
They are one of the better eating fish in the bay, firm and white. Anything you keep inside the state limits is cleaned at the dock at no extra charge.