Fishing Charters in Maryland
Browse fishing charters in Maryland that can help you catch tautog.
Ocean City Guide Service
Charter fishing in Ocean City Maryland for Flounder Fishing, Shark Fishing, Tautog Fishing, and Rockfish Fishing. Family Fun Fishing Charters
Morning Star Fishing
The Morning Star is the party boat that fishes like a private charter out of Ocean City, MD. We mainly target Flounder, Sea Bass and Tautog but offer several special trips that target other seasonal species throughout the year. Come aboard to see what over 40 years of experience can offer you.
Lucky Break Charters
Fish the inshore waters of Ocean City, Maryland aboard Lucky Break Charters. We provide guided fishing trips for flounder, trout, croaker, bluefish, red drum, striped bass, tautog and other fish.
Fin Chaser Sportfishing Charters
Inshore & Offshore fishing for Tuna, Marlin, Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo, Shark, Flounder, Sea Bass, Tautog and more with Fin Chaser Sportfishing in Ocean City, MD.
Best Time to Catch Tautog
Tautog can be caught year-round in North Beach. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tautog
Targeting tautog, also known as blackfish, near North Beach requires understanding the Chesapeake Bay's unique structure and the fish's behavior. Rocky bottoms, bridge pilings, and submerged debris are prime habitats for tautog. Fall is the peak season as they move inshore to feed heavily before winter. Look for them around the Bay Bridge pilings, especially on the eastern side where there's less current. A key to success is using fresh bait like green crabs or fiddler crabs presented on a jig or bottom rig. Tautog are notorious bait stealers, so a quick hookset is essential. Pay close attention to water temperature; as it drops, tautog will move into slightly deeper water, so adjust your depth accordingly. Public access is available at several parks along the shore, but a boat will significantly expand your reach to productive areas.
How to Catch Tautog
Tautog Fishing Regulations in Maryland
Open Season
January 1 - May 15 and August 1 - December 31
Daily Bag Limit
4 per person
Size Limit
16-inch minimum
License Required
Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing License
Possession limit is equal to the daily bag limit. Check for any seasonal closures or gear restrictions in specific areas.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Maryland state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Maryland
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I fish for Tautog near North Beach, MD?
Tautog season in Maryland has two periods: January 1st to May 15th, and August 1st to December 31st. Make sure to plan your fishing trips within these dates.
What's the legal size for Tautog I can keep when fishing near North Beach?
You can only keep Tautog that are 16 inches or longer. Any Tautog smaller than 16 inches must be released back into the water.
How many Tautog am I allowed to keep per day in Maryland?
The bag limit for Tautog is 4 per person. This means you can keep up to four Tautog per day, as long as they meet the minimum size requirement.
Is a fishing license required to catch Tautog near North Beach?
Yes, you'll need a Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing License to legally fish for Tautog in the waters surrounding North Beach. Ensure you have it with you when fishing.
More Tautog Fishing in Maryland
Other Species to Fish in North Beach
Ready to Catch Tautog in North Beach?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.