Sheepshead Fishing in Mississippi
Check regulations
Check regulations
Year-round
Overview
The Sheepshead is a popular saltwater game fish found throughout Mississippi. The sheepshead is a structure-oriented inshore fish famous for its finicky bite, human-like teeth, and exceptional table quality.
Best Waters in Mississippi
Specific water recommendations for sheepshead in Mississippi are being compiled. Check local fishing reports for current hotspots.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- bottom-fishing
- live-bait
Baits & Lures
- Fiddler crab
- Live shrimp (peeled or halved)
- Sand fleas (mole crabs)
- Oyster on shell
- Barnacle-encrusted rock pieces
- Small pieces of fresh clam
- Live mud crab
- Fresh-cut shrimp
Seasonal Guide for Mississippi
SpringSpring Fishing
Spring is the peak sheepshead season in many areas, as fish move into shallow bays and concentrate around structure for spawning from February through April. Bridge pilings, jetties, and nearshore reefs hold large concentrations of fish. This is the best time of year for numbers and size in most Gulf and Atlantic states.
SummerSummer Fishing
Sheepshead remain around inshore structure through summer but become somewhat more dispersed. Focus on deeper pilings, bridge shadow lines, and jetty rocks during the heat of the day. Early morning and late afternoon bites are most productive. Fish can be found near any barnacle-encrusted structure.
FallFall Fishing
Fall brings a secondary peak in sheepshead activity as fish feed heavily around structure. Cooling water temperatures concentrate fish around deep-water pilings and jetties. Fiddler crabs and live shrimp fished tight to pilings produce well. Fall fish are well-fed and in excellent condition for the table.
WinterWinter Fishing
Winter sheepshead fishing can be excellent, particularly in the southern Gulf states where water temperatures remain moderate. Fish concentrate in deeper water near jetties, bridges, and offshore structure. The pre-spawn bite begins in late winter and can produce the largest fish of the year.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Mississippi Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
Specific regulations for sheepshead in Mississippi are not listed in our database. Please check the official Mississippi regulations for current rules.