Fishing Charters in New York
Browse fishing charters in New York that can help you catch tautog.
Momentum Charters
Montauk, New York
Captain Nick Charters
Hampton Bays, New York
I'm Capt. Nick I do fishing charters in Suffolk County on Long Island. Fluke, striped bass, bluefish, and bay sunset cruises
Tide Hustle
Greenport, New York
Tide Hustle is an open boat and private charter fishing boat in Greenport, NY. Tide Hustle fishes for porgies, weakfish, striped bass, blackfish and other local fish. You can buy a single ticket or book the whole boat!
Lake Runner Charters
Hamlin, New York
Lake Runner charters offers Private Group and Family Fishing Charters for up to 6 passengers. Fishing Lake Ontario New York for Salmon, Trout, Kings and more.
Rebel Fishing Charters
Hilton, New York
Zrg Fishing
Chaumont, New York
Second Choice Charters
Montauk, New York
Nova Sport Fishing
Dunkirk, New York
Knot Right Fishing Charter
Westfield, New York
Fishooker Charter Service
Montauk, New York
Dixons To The Point Charters
East Hampton, New York
Fly Fishing in Montauk and the Florida Keys
Fin Alley Fishing Charters
Hampton Bays, New York
Fin Alley is an offshore fishing charter boat in Long Island, NY that targets bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, big eye tuna, albacore, mahi, and marlin.
Best Time to Catch Tautog
Tautog can be caught year-round in Freeport. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tautog
If you're heading to Freeport, NY, with tautog in mind, you're in for a treat. This area offers fantastic opportunities to target these hard-fighting fish around the many inlets, bridges, and rocky structures that define the local waterways. Fall is prime time, as tautog move closer to shore to feed before winter. Focus your efforts on areas with good current and structure, where they ambush prey. A key local tip is to use green crabs, a favorite tautog food, rigged on a jig head to get down quickly in the current. Also, pay close attention to water clarity – tautog are notoriously finicky in murky conditions, so clear water is your friend. The tautog population here is known for its healthy size, so be prepared for a battle!
How to Catch Tautog
Tautog Fishing Regulations in New York
Open Season
April 1 - December 9
Daily Bag Limit
4 per person
Size Limit
16-inch minimum
License Required
Recreational Marine Fishing Registry
Check the NYDEC website for current regulations as they can change annually.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the New York state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in New York
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for tautog (blackfish) around Freeport?
Tautog are known to be finicky eaters, but they generally prefer crabs, clams, and mussels. Green crabs are a local favorite.
What are the regulations for tautog fishing around Freeport, NY?
The season for tautog runs from April 1st to December 9th. You can keep up to 4 tautog per person, and they must be at least 16 inches long.
Do I need a license to fish for tautog in Freeport's waters?
Yes, you need a Recreational Marine Fishing Registry to fish for tautog in New York's marine and coastal district.
Where are some good spots to find tautog near Freeport?
Look for tautog around rocky structures, jetties, and wrecks. These fish like to hang out near cover.
More Tautog Fishing in New York
Other Species to Fish in Freeport
Ready to Catch Tautog in Freeport?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.