Fishing Charters in Massachusetts
Browse fishing charters in Massachusetts that can help you catch tautog.
Blackfin Charters
Plymouth, Massachusetts
Explore boat and fishing charters with Blackfin Charters. Depart from Cordage Park in historic Plymouth, MA, USA. Contact us to book your experience today!
Blue Mind Outfitter
Barnstable, Massachusetts
Sawdust Fishing Charters
Quincy, Massachusetts
Boston, MA fishing lessons and chartered excursions for children and adults. Sawdust Sportfishing is located at the Hingham Shipyard Marinas.
Tenacious Charters Mv
Edgartown, Massachusetts
Ron Arra Surf Fishing
East Sandwich, Massachusetts
Book a Cape Cod Fishing Charter and reel in the best fish species with Ron Arra Surf Fishing! Experience the thrill of surf casting today.
Annalee Charters
Chilmark, Massachusetts
Annalee Charters - Martha's Vineyard Charter Fishing, Menemsha to Cuttyhunk water taxi
Fishing The North East
Wellfleet, Massachusetts
fly fishing the north easts picturesque streams and rivers for brook, brown and rainbow trout
Gypsy Charters
Hyannis, Massachusetts
Don't miss out on the ultimate Cape Cod fishing adventure! Book a trip with GypsyCharters and Captain Tom to catch bass, cod, and flounder.
Charter Trips
Marshfield, Massachusetts
Chasin Tail Charters offers charter fishing trips from Green Harbor, Massachusetts. Chasin Tail Charters specializes in deep sea fishing in Stellwagen Bank and Cape Cod Bay off the coast of Massachusetts.
Little Sister Charter
Quincy, Massachusetts
Islander Private Charters
Rockport, Massachusetts
Vanguard Charters
Newburyport, Massachusetts
Newburyport Fishing Charters Newburyport Fishing Charters for Striped Bass, river cruises and experiences. -
Best Time to Catch Tautog
Tautog can be caught year-round in Salem. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tautog
Tautog, also known as blackfish, are a prized catch in the rocky waters around Salem. These bottom-dwelling fish are most active in the spring and fall when water temperatures are cooler. Target rocky reefs, wrecks, and pilings in depths ranging from 10 to 40 feet. Tautog fishing typically involves using heavy jigs or baited hooks fished tight to the structure. Green crabs are the bait of choice, but clams and other shellfish can also be effective. A key local tip: Tautog are notorious for their subtle bites, so use sensitive tackle and pay close attention to your line. Also, be aware of the strong currents in the area, which can make it challenging to hold bottom. Many anglers fish for tautog from boats, launching from marinas in Salem and nearby towns. The tautog population in this area is relatively healthy, offering anglers a good chance at landing a trophy-sized fish.
How to Catch Tautog
Tautog Fishing Regulations in Massachusetts
Open Season
April 1 to May 15 and August 1 to December 31
Daily Bag Limit
4 per angler
Size Limit
16-inch minimum
License Required
Recreational saltwater fishing permit
Specific dates and bag limits may vary by year, so always check the current regulations.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Massachusetts state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Massachusetts
Frequently Asked Questions
When is tautog (blackfish) season open near Salem, MA?
Tautog season is split into two periods: April 1st to May 15th and then again from August 1st to December 31st.
What's the minimum size for keeping tautog in Massachusetts?
You can only keep tautog that are 16 inches or longer.
How many tautog can I keep per day in Massachusetts?
The daily bag limit for tautog is 4 fish per angler.
Do I need a license to fish for tautog in Salem, MA?
Yes, you need a recreational saltwater fishing permit to fish for tautog in Massachusetts waters.
More Tautog Fishing in Massachusetts
Other Species to Fish in Salem
Ready to Catch Tautog in Salem?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.