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Home > GCR > Vol. 37 > Iss. 1 (2026)

 

Alternate Title

Characterization of a coastwide Sheepshead (Archosargus probatocephalus) fishery reveals increased fishing pressure during spawning activity in Texas

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Sheepshead (Archosargus probatocephalus) have been characterized as one of the most vulnerable species to overfishing in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) based on their reproductive strategy of spawning in aggregations. Here, we analyzed fishery—independent and dependent data (1983—2023) collected by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to assess Sheepshead populations and describe the fishery in Texas. Gill net sampling was used to describe Sheepshead abundance and distribution, while creel survey data and commercial landings were used to determine spatial and temporal characteristics of the fishery and evaluate targeted fishing activity during the spawning season. Sheepshead encountered in gill nets were especially common around GOM passes along the middle and lower Texas coast. Over the time series, trends in Sheepshead abundance were not evident although decreased catches were observed in 2023. Increased harvest and catch rate indicated that Sheepshead experienced heightened fishing pressure during their spawning season (February—April) compared to the rest of the year. In addition, fishing pressure was highly concentrated spatially with most landings observed near Port Aransas, TX. These results indicate that fishing pressure is most intense when Sheepshead are highly vulnerable due to their aggregating spawning behavior. In addition, the combination of fishery—independent and dependent data can be useful for evaluating the vulnerability of Sheepshead and other spawning—focused fisheries.

First Page

19

Last Page

28

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Statement

No artificial intelligence (AI) was used in the preparation of this manuscript

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