Page 99 - Fish in OC Magazine 2025
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TO CATCH A
‘CONVICT’!
| Sheepshead Fishing in Ocean City, Maryland
Sheepshead fishing in Ocean City, the warmer months, from late spring
Maryland is a popular and rewarding through early fall, when water tem-
activity for both seasoned anglers peratures are more favorable. Early
and newcomers. Known for their dis- morning and late afternoon tend to be
tinctive appearance and challenging the most productive times of the day,
catch, sheepshead are a prized tar- as sheepshead are more active during
get in the waters around Ocean City. these periods. Sheepshead prefer
Sheepshead are a prime target for both a slow moving tide so fishing times
shore-based and private boat anglers, close to the change of tide cycles can
and there are several inshore charter be very productive.
boats that specialize in sheepshead
fishing in Ocean City. This article will Catching sheepshead requires some
delve into the best times and locations specific techniques and equipment.
for sheepshead fishing, the techniques These fish are known for their strong,
and equipment needed, and some tips crushing bites, so using the right gear
for a successful fishing trip. is crucial. A medium to heavy spinning
rod and reel combo, spooled with 20-
Sheepshead, with their black and 30 lb braided line, is a good starting
white striped bodies and human-like point. Braided line is preferred for its
teeth, are typically found around struc- sensitivity and strength, which helps
tures such as jetties, piers, and bridg- detect the subtle bites of sheepshead.
es. In Ocean City, some of the prime
spots include the Route 50 Bridge, When it comes to bait, sheepshead
the Ocean City Inlet, and various rock have a particular taste for crusta-
piles and wrecks in the area. The best ceans. Fiddler crabs, sand fleas, and
time to fish for sheepshead is during shrimp are among the most effective
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