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 Ship Bottom. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Tautog
Want to test your skills against the wily Tautog, also known as Blackfish? Ship Bottom, NJ, is a great place to do it. These fish are structure-oriented, so concentrate your efforts around jetties, rock piles, and wrecks in the bay and nearshore waters. Tautog fishing in this area is best in the spring and fall when water temperatures are cooler. Green crabs are the go-to bait, but Asian crabs are gaining popularity. A key to success is presenting your bait tight to the structure where they hide. Be prepared for a battle – Tautog are known for their powerful initial runs. Many anglers launch from the public ramp on Long Beach Boulevard. Remember to check the local regulations, as the season and size limits for Tautog are strictly enforced to maintain a healthy population.
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 are the open seasons for Tautog (Blackfish) in New Jersey?
Tautog fishing in New Jersey has multiple seasons: January 1 – February 28, April 1 – April 30, July 17 – November 15, and December 1 – December 31. Be sure to plan your trips accordingly.
What is the size limit for Tautog in New Jersey?
The minimum size limit for Tautog that you can keep is 16 inches.
How many Tautog can I keep per day during each season in New Jersey?
The daily bag limit for Tautog varies by season. It's 4 per person from Jan 1-Feb 28, 1 per person from Apr 1-Apr 30, 5 per person from Jul 17-Nov 15, and 4 per person from Dec 1-Dec 31.
What's the best bait to use for Tautog near Ship Bottom?
Tautog are known to be picky eaters, but green crabs, Asian crabs, and clams are popular and effective bait choices.
More Tautog Fishing in New Jersey
Other Species to Fish in Ship Bottom
Ready to Catch Tautog in Ship Bottom?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



