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 Sparrows Point. Right now in May, activity is moderate.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Tautog
Tautog, also known as blackfish, provide a challenging yet rewarding fishing opportunity around Sparrows Point. These fish are structure-oriented and can be found around bridge pilings, rock jetties, and submerged debris in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The best time to target tautog is during the fall and winter months when the water temperatures drop. They are notoriously finicky eaters, so patience and persistence are key. Use heavy tackle and strong hooks, as they are powerful fighters and live in snag-filled environments. Green crabs are the bait of choice, but clams and other crustaceans can also be effective. A local tip: pre-fish your spots at low tide to identify potential snags and plan your approach accordingly. Also, be aware that tautog fishing can be affected by strong currents, so adjust your weight accordingly.
Plan a Trip to Sparrows Point
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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 around Sparrows Point?
Tautog in the Sparrows Point area respond well to green crabs, fiddler crabs, and clams. Fishing near structure like rocks, pilings, or wrecks will increase your chances of success.
When is tautog season open near Sparrows Point?
Tautog season in Maryland is split. You can fish for them from January 1st to May 15th, and again from August 1st to December 31st.
Do I need a license to fish for tautog in Sparrows Point?
Yes, you need a valid Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing License to fish for tautog in the Sparrows Point area.
What is the minimum size for tautog that I can keep in Maryland?
The minimum size limit for tautog in Maryland is 16 inches. Any tautog you catch that is smaller than 16 inches must be released.
What's the daily bag limit for tautog in Sparrows Point?
You're allowed to keep 4 tautog per person per day, as long as each fish meets the 16-inch minimum size requirement.
More Tautog Fishing in Maryland
Other Species to Fish in Sparrows Point
Ready to Catch Tautog in Sparrows Point?
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