nearshore

Sheepshead

Archosargus probatocephalus

Spring spawning aggregations on structure. Fiddler crabs, sand fleas, oysters on small jigs. Subtle bite, fast hookset.

Preferred water temp50–80°F

Preferred depth5–50 ft

Peak monthsFeb, Mar, Apr

Holds onpilings, bridges, jetties, oyster bars, rocky bottom

In our regions

Northeast Florida — AtlanticCentral/Southeast Florida — AtlanticMiami & Keys — Atlantic sideSouthwest Florida — GulfFlorida Panhandle — GulfBig Bend — GulfNorth Carolina (Outer Banks + Cape Lookout)South Carolina CoastGeorgia CoastAlabama GulfMississippi GulfLouisiana GulfTexas Gulf

Regulations

⚠️ BETA: best-effort current as of May 31, 2026. Confirm with the linked FWC / NOAA source before keeping a fish.

Showing 2 of 10 regulations for FL Gulf

STATE

FL Gulf — State waters (0–9 nm)

Currently OPENOpen year-round

Bag limit: 8 / angler / day
Vessel limit: 50 total / vessel / day
Minimum: 12″ TL (total length)

Vessel limit 50 per trip during March and April only.

FL Gulf sheepshead: 8/day, 12" TL.

STATE

All Florida — State + Federal

Currently OPENOpen year-round

Bag limit: 8 / angler / day
Vessel limit: 50 total / vessel / day
Minimum: 12″ TL (total length)

8/person, vessel max 50. State-water species (no federal limits).