Fish spawn is quite an exciting time for many anglers, as it signals the start of the fishing season. When it comes to sheepshead fish, there are a few things you need to keep in mind during their spawn.
A lot of people don’t know this, but sheepshead fish is actually a type of freshwater fish. The spawning season for sheepshead fish can seem quite unpredictable, which is why it’s quite important to plan and fish for sheepshead during the spawning season.
Continue reading to learn more.
Preferred Season of Sheepshead Spawn
The ideal time to fish for sheepshead is during their spawning season, which typically occurs between February, March, and April. However, the specific dates can vary depending on the location, which is best to consult with a local charter.
Anglers who are looking to target sheepshead during their spawn should fish during this time period. It’s best to note that they are attracted to baitfish, so using live bait such as shrimp and small fish is the best way to catch them during their spawning season.
Preferred Location of Sheepshead Spawn
Sheepshead fish need an area that will provide them with the shelter and food they need to reproduce. Some of the best places to fish for sheepshead during their spawn include the Gulf of Mexico and various parts of Florida.
During the spawn, sheepshead fish congregate in large groups near reefs, docks, and other structures in shallow waters. This makes them a lot easier to catch during this time.
Preferred Water Temperature of Sheepshead Spawn
Sheepshead fish are most active and reproduce best in waters that are between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water gets too cold, they tend to go into a state of dormancy. This means they will not feed or reproduce as much.
In addition to temperature, the preferred water depth for sheepshead spawning is between 2 and 10 feet. It’s best to take this into consideration if you’re hoping to catch sheepshead spawn.
Other Considerations with Sheepshead Spawn
As with any fish, there are a few things to consider before going on a fishing trip to catch sheepshead. Aside from what’s above, here are some additional considerations to make:
- School Size. When it comes to fishing for sheepshead, one of the most important things to consider is the size of the school. Sheepshead typically travels in schools of around 10,000 fish. It’s important to ensure you’re targeting a school that’s the right size for your needs.
- Lifespan. Additionally, sheepshead has a lifespan of around 20 years. Because of that lengthy lifespan, these types of fish can provide plenty of opportunities for catch-and-release fishing.
- Growth Rate. Finally, sheepshead has a relatively fast growth rate compared to other kinds of fish, reaching maturity at around two to three years old already. They have an average weight of eight to ten pounds in adulthood.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re planning on fishing for sheepshead, it’s important to keep in mind the fish’s spawning habits. By keeping these different facts in mind, you can surely catch sheepshead fish during your trip.
Seeking a fishing charter in Pensacola, FL? Showintail Inshore Fishing Charters offers a fun, family-friendly inshore fishing trip that can help you find sheepshead fish. Get in touch with us today!
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