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 Solomons. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tautog
Tautog, also known as blackfish, are a challenging but rewarding species to target around Solomons, Maryland. They are structure-oriented fish, so focus your efforts on rocky bottoms, bridge pilings, and artificial reefs in the Chesapeake Bay. The best time to fish for tautog is during the cooler months, particularly late fall and early spring, when they are actively feeding before and after spawning. A local tip is to use green crabs or fiddler crabs as bait, fished on a heavy jig or bottom rig. Tautog are notorious for their quick bites and ability to retreat into structure, so use heavy tackle and be prepared to set the hook quickly. The tautog population in the Chesapeake Bay is relatively stable, providing a consistent fishery for dedicated anglers.
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
What's the best bait to use for Tautog in Solomons, MD?
Tautog in Solomons respond well to crustaceans. Anglers often use green crabs, fiddler crabs, or even small pieces of shrimp as effective bait.
When is Tautog season open in Solomons, Maryland?
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.
How many Tautog can I keep when fishing near Solomons, MD?
The current bag limit for Tautog in Maryland is 4 per person per day. Be sure to check for any updates before you head out.
What is the minimum size for keeping Tautog in Maryland?
You can only keep Tautog that are at least 16 inches long in Maryland. Any Tautog smaller than that must be released.
More Tautog Fishing in Maryland
Other Species to Fish in Solomons
Ready to Catch Tautog in Solomons?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.