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 Toms River. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Tautog
Tautog, also known as blackfish, are a prized catch for anglers fishing around Toms River. These bottom-dwelling fish are notoriously picky, making them a challenging but rewarding target. The best time to fish for Tautog is during the fall and winter months when they move inshore to spawn. Focus on areas with rocky structure, such as jetties, bridges, and submerged wrecks. Green crabs are the bait of choice for Tautog, and a stout rod and reel are essential to haul them out of their rocky lairs. A key tactic is to use just enough weight to hold bottom, as Tautog are masters at detecting unnatural presentations. The Route 37 bridge pilings are a known Tautog hotspot, but be mindful of boat traffic and strong currents in that area.
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 for Tautog I can keep in New Jersey?
The minimum size limit for Tautog (also known as Blackfish) in New Jersey is 16 inches. Make sure to measure your catch carefully.
How many Tautog can I keep during the different seasons in New Jersey?
The bag limit for Tautog varies throughout the year: 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.
When is Tautog season open in New Jersey?
Tautog season in New Jersey has multiple openings throughout the year: January 1 – February 28, April 1 – April 30, July 17 – November 15, and December 1 – December 31. Be sure to check the specific dates before you go fishing.
What kind of bait is effective for catching Tautog in the Toms River area?
Tautog are known to be picky eaters, but green crabs, Asian crabs, and sandworms are popular and effective baits. Using a jig or rig that allows you to feel the subtle bites is also recommended.
More Tautog Fishing in New Jersey
Other Species to Fish in Toms River
Ready to Catch Tautog in Toms River?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



