Sheepshead

For a challenging and rewarding fishing experience, try targeting sheepshead around Oak Island, North Carolina. These convict-striped fish are known for their cunning and powerful bite. Look for them around docks, pilings, bridges, and rock jetties in the Intracoastal Waterway and near the inlets. Sheepshead are structure-oriented, so the more barnacle-encrusted structure, the better. Spring and fall are prime times, as the water temperatures are moderate. Fiddler crabs are the bait of choice, but shrimp and clams can also be effective. A crucial tip is to use a short, stout hook and a sensitive rod to detect their subtle bites. Be ready to set the hook quickly! The pilings under the Swain's Cut Bridge are a known sheepshead hotspot, but be mindful of boat traffic and strong currents.