Tautog Fishing Charters

Tautog, also called blackfish, is a prized bottom fish along the Northeast Atlantic coast from Virginia to Massachusetts. These structure-oriented fish are a fall and winter party boat staple, offering consistent action when other species have moved offshore.

Party boats anchor over rocky reefs, bridge pilings, wrecks, and jetties where tautog hold tight to structure. Green crabs, Asian crabs, and white legger crabs are the preferred baits, fished right on the bottom with heavy sinkers to keep your offering in the strike zone. Tautog are nibblers, so detecting the bite takes practice.

Once hooked, tautog fight with surprising power, diving straight for the rocks and trying to wrap your line around structure. Their crushing teeth and powerful jaws are designed for cracking shellfish, so they have the strength to back up their escape attempts. Most fish run 2 to 6 pounds, with trophy fish exceeding 10 pounds.

Tautog is one of the best-eating fish in the Northeast. The white, firm flesh has a mild, sweet flavor that is perfect for pan-frying or baking. Because tautog is a slow-growing species, most states have strict size and bag limits.