Sheepshead Fishing in Longboat Key
Florida
Sheepshead is one of the species anglers target most around Longboat Key, Florida. MyFishingBuds matches you with local anglers who chase Sheepshead on New Pass and Longboat Pass so you can share a boat, split costs, and learn the water faster.
62 anglers on MyFishingBuds are targeting Sheepshead.
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Sheepshead at a glance
- Scientific name
- Archosargus probatocephalus
- IGFA record
- 21.25 lbs
- Max length
- 35 in
- Preferred water temp
- 55–75°F
About Sheepshead
The notorious bait thief with human-like teeth — excellent eating but requires lightning reflexes
→ Full Sheepshead guide: habits, gear & how to catch themWhen to fish Longboat Key
Year-round fishery. Fall (October-December) is the inshore peak — redfish school on the Sarasota Bay flats and around Sister Keys, and trout fishing is at its best. Beach tarpon run the Gulf side and stage at New Pass and Longboat Pass May-July. Snook stack in both passes in the warm months (harvest seasons apply). Spanish and king mackerel work the nearshore reefs spring and fall; snapper hold the passes and hard bottom. Winter brings sheepshead and pompano around the passes and bridges. Summer is hot with afternoon storms.
→ Today's best fishing times in Longboat Key (sunrise, sunset & moon)Where to fish for Sheepshead in Longboat Key
- 📍 New Pass
- 📍 Longboat Pass
- 📍 Sister Keys
- 📍 Sarasota Bay (north)
- 📍 Jewfish Key
🪪 Florida fishing license
Anglers targeting Sheepshead in Longboat Key need a valid Florida fishing license. Resident, non-resident, and short-term options are all available — see our complete guide for current 2026 prices and direct purchase links.
Florida fishing license cost 2026 →Sheepshead in Longboat Key: FAQ
Do I need a fishing license to catch Sheepshead in Longboat Key?▾
Yes. Anglers fishing in Longboat Key need a valid Florida fishing license (with the right freshwater or saltwater privileges for where you fish). Resident, non-resident, and short-term options are all available — see our Florida guide for current 2026 prices and direct purchase links.
When is the best time to fish for Sheepshead near Longboat Key?▾
Year-round fishery. Fall (October-December) is the inshore peak — redfish school on the Sarasota Bay flats and around Sister Keys, and trout fishing is at its best. Beach tarpon run the Gulf side and stage at New Pass and Longboat Pass May-July. Snook stack in both passes in the warm months (harvest seasons apply). Spanish and king mackerel work the nearshore reefs spring and fall; snapper hold the passes and hard bottom. Winter brings sheepshead and pompano around the passes and bridges. Summer is hot with afternoon storms.
How do I find a Sheepshead fishing buddy in Longboat Key?▾
Create a free MyFishingBuds profile, set Sheepshead as a target species, and pick Longboat Key as your area. You'll be matched with nearby anglers who target the same species and fish a similar style, so you can plan a trip, share a boat, and split the costs.
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Other species to target in Longboat Key
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