Tautog

Tautog, also known as blackfish, are a prized catch for anglers fishing around Brooklyn. These hard-fighting fish inhabit rocky structures, wrecks, and pilings in the New York Harbor and surrounding waters. The best time to target tautog is during the fall and winter months when they move into shallower waters to spawn. A stout rod and reel are essential, as tautog are masters at breaking you off on structure. Fiddler crabs and green crabs are the baits of choice, fished on a jig or a bottom rig. A local trick is to use a 'tog teaser' – a small, brightly colored fly or skirt attached above your main hook – to attract attention. Popular spots include the rocks around Coney Island and the pilings under the bridges. Be prepared to lose some tackle, but the reward of landing a big tautog is well worth the effort.