The Sheepshead Fish

The Sheepshead Fish are a very common that can be found primarily in saline to near-fresh estuarine waters from Cape Cod to Gulfwide. Their diet includes all kinds of things that normal fish don't consume – from algae and crabs to mollusks and plants.

The Sheepshead Fish have a standout feature that helps them consume their diet: teeth like humans. Unlike human teeth, the Sheepshead Fish have rows behind the front teeth, which makes them a unique and unforgettable fish. Because their teeth look like sheep’s teeth, it has been suggested that is how they got the name “Sheepshead”.  They have also coined the nickname, “convict fish” due to their vertical black and silver stripes with very sharp spines. These “convict fish” can get to be about 30 inches long, and 15 pounds. 

They are popular among recreational fisherman and can make a delicious dinner.  However, they can be difficult to clean due to their sharp spines. 

Photo Credit: www.worldfishingnetwork.com