First Cast
Sheepshead

First Cast species profile

Sheepshead

Archosargus probatocephalus

A structure-focused bait thief that feeds on barnacles, crabs, and shrimp around jetties, pilings, docks, and rocks.

Bite estimate

Reading conditions for your fishing location…

Movement & conditions

Near San Antonio, TX · change location

Movement modelling for Sheepshead is on the map and the conditions screen, which cover this species from its own habitat and seasonal profile. Open the map

Predicted zones combine environmental and historical fisheries data. They do not represent live fish locations.

Movement and migration guide

No movement profile is matched to Sheepshead yet — this searches the Field Guide by name.

Where to fish

Use small hooks and crab or shrimp near barnacles, pilings, bulkheads, and jetty rocks.

Jetty rocksBridge pilingsDocksBulkheadsBarnacle-covered structure

Regulation card

Needs review: check current TPWD Outdoor Annual before harvesting.

Regulations: Check current TPWD rules before harvesting.

Source: TPWD Outdoor Annual 2025-2026

What to throw

Fiddler crab, Live shrimp, Barnacle pieces and Knocker rig around Jetty rocks, Bridge pilings, Docks.

SaltwaterJetty rocksBridge pilingsDocks

Recommended setup

7' medium spinning rod, 2500-3000 reel, 15-20 lb braid, short fluorocarbon leader.

Medium spinning rod

Rod

Easy-casting setup for coastal structure, flats, and live bait rigs.

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Knocker rig

Rig

Matches the primary presentation anglers use for this species.

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Fiddler crab

Bait

Keeps the offering close to what fish are already feeding on.

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Gear & Tackle Box

Rods & Reels

Ugly Stik Bigwater Fishing Rod & Penn Pursuit IV Spinning Reel Combo

Surf, pier, jetty, and bigger fish combo.

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Line & Leader

Reaction Tackle Fluorocarbon Leaders

Beginner-friendly leader option for freshwater and Texas inshore fishing.

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Lures & Baits

Strike King Tidal Shrimp

Shrimp imitation for redfish, trout, and flounder.

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Hooks & Terminal Tackle

Reaction Tackle Egg Sinkers

Sinkers for bottom rigs targeting catfish, drum, and redfish.

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Illustration: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department

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Verify current regulations with the state or federal authority before fishing.