Counting sheep was today’s theme. Sheepshead better know as the Convict fish for both their stripes and their knack of stealing bait. Sheepies in Tampa Bay area average 1-3 pounds with a true monster 7-10 pounds.
With an unusual west wind making the flats milky Captain Steven headed directly to protected canals. The first stop paid off within minutes with a chunky 2 pounder. Soon another followed then another then several trout. The dock we targeted was in 9’ of 59 degree water. Muddy dark bottom warms quickly making ideal habitat for sheepshead.
Today’s rig started with 3’ of 25 pound fluorocarbon leader a small egg shape sliding weight and a size 1 hook. Better known as a knocker rig. Hook size is key as Sheepshead have tiny mouths. It’s imperative you have no slack in your line. With sheepshead the bite is a small tick tick or just the line moving side to side.
A tight drag is key as you have to keep the sheepshead out of the dock pilings.
