How to Bait Shrimp for Sheepshead

Sheepshead are members of the porgy fish species and generally are found in near-shore saltwater areas. They also can be found in brackish water. The fish reach a maximum weight of about 20 pounds, and fishermen primarily catch them on live bait. One of the most effective and sporting ways to catch them is with a lead-head jig tipped with a live shrimp. Anglers should look for sheepshead on irregular bottoms or reefs that are close to the shore.

Things You'll Need

  • Fishing rod and reel
  • Line
  • 1/4-ounce lead-head jig
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Instructions

    • 1

      Tie a 1/4-ounce lead-head jig onto the end of 12-pound fishing line, loaded on a medium-action fishing rod. Use a Palomar knot to tie the jig to the end of the line.

    • 2

      Push the hook point into and through the chin of the shrimp and out the top of its head. Make sure the hook is between the two black dots on top of its head. Adjust the shrimp so it rides straight on the jig.

    • 3

      Throw several handfuls of shrimp into the area where you are fishing. Wait a couple of minutes for nearby sheepshead to locate and start feeding on the shrimp.

    • 4

      Cast the jig and shrimp combination into the area and let it sink to the bottom. Drag the rig along the bottom, or retrieve it in small hops. Set the hook with a firm, upward motion when you feel extra weight on the end of your line.