Porgy

Sheepshead Fishing in Maryland

A striped bait thief of pilings, jetties, and bridges along the Atlantic and Gulf. Winter and early spring bring them in to spawn.

Waters
1
State
Maryland
Water
Saltwater
Methods
Spin & Bait

Peak Months in Maryland: Dec to Apr

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F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Highlighted months are the best fishing. Most fish are in the water year-round; other months are slower.

Sheepshead
Image: U.S. Food and Drug Administration · Public domain

Licenses & Regulations

Most anglers need a Maryland fishing license; age cutoffs and exemptions are set by the state. Seasons, limits, and tackle rules vary by water, so check current regulations before you go.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Plan by Month

Best Flies, Lures & Bait for Sheepshead

Month

1 picks for October.

  • Live Shrimp 2 to 4 in

    Bait

    Live Bait

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Rod & Reel

Sheepshead Setup

Spin / Cast

7 ft medium spinning rod with a sensitive tip, 3000 reel, 20 lb braid, fiddler crabs on a small strong hook.

Maryland

Where to Catch Sheepshead

1 of 1 waters

Maryland

Shops to Stock Up

Recommended

Gear for Sheepshead

Reels

Penn Battle III Spinning Reel

A metal-bodied reel built to survive saltwater and big runs.

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Rods

Penn Battalion II Inshore Spinning Rod

A medium inshore rod for jigs, popping corks, and live bait.

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Line

PowerPro Spectra Braided Line

Thin, strong braid for long casts, sensitivity, and pulling fish from cover.

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Terminal Tackle

Egg Sinkers and Swivels

Egg sinkers, swivels, and beads for slip-sinker and Carolina rigs.

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Sheepshead Fishing by State