Weekly Sheepshead Report

[A. probatocephalus]

Since our website is down right now, I'll try to keep you guys updated with what we have done in the project. Last week we did manage to collect 6 small sheepshead rangingin weight from 1 to 2.5 lbs. We believe these are probably 1 year olds so it appears that we are beginning to see some of the 1 year olds from the strong year class last year.

Just a reminder, this week and weekend we will have the coolers at our usual marinas. In addition, the coolers at Little Creek and Taylor's Landing will be available through memorial day. Please if you catch any place in the coolers.

Thanks,

Joey

[Dabone]

Joey,

I was only in the water 15 minutes today, but did manage to spear a 5-6 lbs sheepshead. Saw mostly togs which obvioiusly were fun to look at, but none were shot. The sheepshead was swimming around with a big tog. I left the carcass at Marina Shores and asked them to put ice on it. Hopefully I will have some more for you throughout the summer.

[vb2ncnhp]

can you explain to me what this is about (dropping off the carcasses)? been down in NC for too long i guess... lots of em down here. where have you been spearing at?

[person]

ODU is doing a study on sheepshead and hey leave coolers at the cleaning stations so you can leave the carcasses so they can study them

[A. probatocephalus]

Thanks Dabone for the fish, I had been on vacation and just saw your reply. We appreciate any we can get. So far it appears to be a slightly better year for sheepshead than last.

As for the guy asking about the carcasses, he is correct about the coolers. Basically, we will take either whole sheepshead or sheepshead that have already been filleted that have been placed in one of our coolers. We get their lengths, weights and otoliths and then use this informaiton to assess the health of the bay populaiton.

As for last week, because I was on vacation and was not able to contact my co-workers, I do not know how many sheepshead we collected in total but I will let you know as soon as I find out.

Joey