Sheepshead Management Information
Sheepshead Management Information
No stock assessment is currently available for Sheepshead. There is no FMP for Sheepshead in North Carolina and management occurs through NCMFC rule 15A NCAC 03M .0521. Due to increases in fishing pressure, particularly on juvenile fish, and a decline in older fish observed in recent years, management changes were implemented in March 2026. DMF will continue to monitor trends in data through the annual FMP review to determine how the 2026 management measures are affecting landings and age structure. The Division recognizes a stock assessment and Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Sheepshead would provide additional information to guide future management. However, given the number of species currently prioritized for assessment and FMP review and the recent changes to Sheepshead management measures, the Division will consider the appropriate timing for these efforts as future assessment and FMP needs are evaluated.
| Species Lead |
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| Anne Markwith Email: Anne.Markwith@deq.nc.gov Phone: 910-796-7292 |