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 Long Branch. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Tautog
Tautog (Blackfish) angling near Long Branch, New Jersey, revolves around targeting rocky structures, jetties, and wrecks in the nearshore and offshore waters. These bottom-dwelling fish are notoriously challenging to catch, requiring patience and precise presentation. The best time to target tautog is during the fall and winter months when they move inshore to spawn. Using crab or clam baits fished tight to the structure is the most common and effective method. A local tip: Use heavy tackle and abrasion-resistant line, as tautog are masters at breaking you off on rocks. Also, be prepared to lose some rigs, as snags are common. The tautog in this area are known for their powerful bites and stubborn fights, making them a prized catch for experienced anglers. Consider launching from a local marina to access the best tautog grounds.
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 best bait for Tautog (Blackfish) in Long Branch?
Green crabs and Asian crabs are the go-to baits for Tautog. Anglers also use clams and other shellfish.
What are the regulations regarding Tautog fishing in New Jersey?
Tautog regulations in NJ are seasonal, with different bag limits throughout the year. As of this writing, the season runs January 1 – February 28 (4 fish), April 1 – April 30 (1 fish), July 17 – November 15 (5 fish), and December 1 – December 31 (4 fish). There is a 16-inch minimum size limit, and a saltwater fishing license is required.
When is Tautog season open in Long Branch?
Tautog season in New Jersey is broken into multiple periods: January 1 – February 28, April 1 – April 30, July 17 – November 15, and December 1 – December 31. Be sure to check the current regulations for any changes.
What size Tautog can I keep in New Jersey?
You can only keep Tautog that are 16 inches or longer.
More Tautog Fishing in New Jersey
Other Species to Fish in Long Branch
Ready to Catch Tautog in Long Branch?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



