The South Florida collection
How to catch sheepshead in Palm Beach Inlet
Drift shrimp close to rocky bottom with a weighted rig, staying alert for the subtle sheepshead bite.
The method
This method drifts shrimp along rocky bottom in Palm Beach Inlet, using a weighted rig to keep the bait close to the structure. Small pieces of shrimp leave the hook exposed, while repeated passes help locate the fish. The demonstrations show how to feel the bottom, recognize a soft bite and reel into a hookup.
See it in action
How to catch SHEEPSHEAD in Palm Beach Inlet (opens in a new tab)
South Florida SALT · Main demonstration
Gear & bait
01 / Rod
Fishing rod
Fishing rod for drifting shrimp near rocky bottom.
02 / Reel
3500–4000-size reel
3500–4000-size reel.
03 / Main line
20 lb braided main line
20 lb braided main line.
04 / Complete rig
Weighted shrimp rig
20 lb fluorocarbon rig with a small hook and a 2–3 oz weight. Keep spare rigs ready for snags.
05 / Tool
Landing net
Landing net for bringing larger fish aboard.
06 / Bait
Shrimp pieces
Small pieces of shrimp threaded through the meat and shell, leaving the hook exposed.