sheepshead
Species Facts

Science Name: Archosargus probatocephalus
Other Names: convict fish, seabream
Ideal Temp: 60 to 65
World Record: 21 lbs. 4 oz, La.
Environment: inshore, coastal
Techniques: medium tackle, bottom fishing
Description

Basic silvery color, with 5 or 6 distinct vertical black bands on sides; not always the same on both sides; prominent teeth, including incisors, molars, and rounded grinders; no barbels on lower jaw; strong and sharp spines on dorsal and anal fins.

Frequently taken by anglers fishing for other species with both artificial and live baits.

Habitat
Sheepshead are found in coastal waters browsing around jetties, wharfs, pilings, shipwrecks, and other structures covered with barnacles, mussels, and oysters. The species range from Nova Scotia to Cedar Key, Florida, along the Atlantic coast of North America. There are two other populations of the species that are regarded as subspecies, but they occur in the western Gulf of Mexico and in the South Atlantic to Rio de Janeiro.

Feeding Habits
These fish are often seen browsing the pylons of brideges and piers for for a variety of crustaceans. Their large, strong teeth have enough power to crush the shells of most small invertebrates.

Sheepshead are a favorite food fish. They are excellent fried, baked, or broiled. The flesh is white and dry, and the large bones are easily avoided.