Sheepshead

Common Name: Sheepshead Family: Sparidae Identification: Sheepshead are easily identified by their distinctive black and white vertical bars and robust, compressed body shape. They have a short, sharp dorsal fin and a long anal fin that’s similar in shape. The mouth is small, with human-like incisors and molars arranged in three rows in each jaw, which are used for crushing oyster shells, crabs, and barnacles, their primary food source. Size: Commonly found at lengths of 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 cm), but can grow up to 35 inches (89 cm). They can weigh between 5 to 15 pounds (2 to 7 kg), with larger specimens recorded. Coloration: Sheepshead exhibit a silver-gray to yellowish color with 5 to 7 distinctive vertical black bands across the sides, which fade as they age. The body is deep and compressed with a sharp, bony ridge near the tail. Distribution: They are found in the Western Atlantic from Nova Scotia down to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean, though they are most common from Virginia to Texas. They are inshore species, frequenting oyster bars, seawalls, and piers as well as grassy flats. Habitat: They prefer estuarine environments rich in invertebrates, especially areas with structures like pilings, jetties, reefs, and shipwrecks where their food sources are abundant. They are often found in brackish waters and can tolerate a wide range of salinities. Behavior: Sheepshead are notorious bait stealers, using their precise and strong dentition to pick off baits. They are a popular target for anglers due to their challenging fight and delicious taste. Reproduction: Spawning occurs in offshore waters from late winter to early spring, with each female releasing thousands of eggs that are fertilized externally. Juveniles typically settle in seagrass beds, where they find shelter and abundant food. Diet: Their diet consists mainly of hard-shelled invertebrates like mollusks, barnacles, and crustaceans. Sheepshead are a favorite catch among recreational anglers due to their cunning nature and the quality of their meat, which is white, firm, and considered very tasty. They are also appreciated for their role in controlling the populations of their prey, which can otherwise become pests in their habitats.