Sheepshead

Sheepshead, those convict-striped fish, are a popular target around Isle of Palms. The key is structure! Docks, pilings, bridges, and rock jetties are all prime sheepshead habitat. The jetties at the entrance to Charleston Harbor are particularly productive. Spring and fall are the best times to target sheepshead, as they tend to congregate around these structures during spawning season. Fiddler crabs are the go-to bait, but oysters or barnacles scraped directly from the pilings can also work wonders. A helpful hint: use a short, stout rod and heavy line, as sheepshead are notorious for their quick strikes and ability to break you off on structure. The sheepshead around Isle of Palms can be quite large, often exceeding five pounds. Be patient, as they can be finicky eaters, and remember to set the hook quickly and firmly when you feel a bite.