Fishing Charters in New Jersey
Browse fishing charters in New Jersey that can help you catch tautog.


Catch N Hell Fishing Charters
Highlands, New Jersey
fishing


Control Freaks Sportfishing
Brick Township, New Jersey


Celtic Stoirm
Belmar, New Jersey
Charter Boat in Belmar, NJ


Fat Cat Sport Fishing
Neptune City, New Jersey
NJ Fatcat Offshore and Inshore Sportfishing from Belmar NJ


Blitzbound Charters
Lincroft, New Jersey


Fish Stix Charter Fishing
Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey
TRIPS AND RATES6 Passengers Max Stripers - $900. 00 - (6hrs) (April - July, October - December) Offshore Shark - $1800. 00 (12-14 hours, May/June). (20-40mil


Ziggyb Sport Fishing Nj
Avon-By-The-Sea, New Jersey
The ZiggyB, NJ's most proud and one of the Shark Rivers longest running sport fishing Charters providing pro's/ amatuers alike with quality NJ fishing charters


Lighthouse Sportfishing
Barnegat, New Jersey


Terry Sullivans Guide Service
Point Pleasant, New Jersey
I am a lifelong resident of Ocean County, New Jersey and have been a professional fishing guide for the past ten years. I have been an intense and avid salt-water fisherman for over thirty years. Both of my boats are especially well suited for fly-fishing. In our local waters we are able to catch large striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, fluke, albacore, bonita, spanish mackerel, and a variety of different tuna. As your charter-fishing guide I will also tailor fit our itinerary to target any specific salt-water species that are within our range and season if you desire. Whether it is live-lining bait or enticing them with a custom tied fly, I well do what it takes to put us on the bite. I would enjoy and welcome the opportunity to make your day an enjoyable experience and pleasantly memorable one fishing the rivers, bays and ocean as your personal salt-water fishing guide.


Shootem Sportfishing
Brick Township, New Jersey
Spend your days of fun at Sipnseachartersnj. Enjoy with your family and friends our exciting cruise trips and events. Try out our various sport fishing charters.


Waterman Charters
Barnegat, New Jersey


No Expectations Fishing
Cape May, New Jersey
Experience world-class inshore Flounder fishing in Cape May on a shared charter. Expert-guided trips for all skill levels. Reserve your spot today!
Best Time to Catch Tautog
Tautog can be caught year-round in Island Heights. 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 Island Heights. These fish are structure-oriented, so concentrate your efforts around docks, rock piles, and wrecks in Barnegat Bay and the nearby Atlantic. Fall and winter are the prime seasons for tautog, as they move inshore to spawn. Green crabs are the bait of choice for most local anglers. A common tactic is to use a heavy jig or hook to keep your bait pinned to the bottom in the strong currents. Be prepared for short, powerful strikes. A good access point is the Island Heights borough dock. Tautog fishing requires patience and precision, but the reward is a delicious and hard-earned meal. Make sure to check the regulations regarding size and bag limits, as they can be strict.
How to Catch Tautog
Tautog Fishing Regulations in New Jersey
Open Season
January 1 – February 28, April 1 – April 30, July 17 – November 15, December 1 – December 31
Daily Bag Limit
4 per person (Jan 1-Feb 28), 1 per person (Apr 1-Apr 30), 5 per person (Jul 17-Nov 15), 4 per person (Dec 1-Dec 31)
Size Limit
16-inch minimum
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Check the current regulations for any in-season changes.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the New Jersey state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in New Jersey
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum size tautog I can keep in Island Heights?
The minimum size limit for tautog (blackfish) is 16 inches.
What is the bag limit for tautog in July in Island Heights, NJ?
From July 17th to November 15th, the bag limit for tautog is 5 per person.
Is tautog fishing open year-round in Island Heights?
No, tautog season is split into multiple periods throughout the year: January 1 – February 28, April 1 – April 30, July 17 – November 15, and December 1 – December 31.
What license do I need to fish for tautog in Island Heights, NJ?
You will need a valid New Jersey saltwater fishing license to fish for tautog.
How many tautog can I keep in April in Island Heights?
During the month of April (April 1-April 30), you can keep 1 tautog per person.
More Tautog Fishing in New Jersey
Other Species to Fish in Island Heights
Ready to Catch Tautog in Island Heights?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



