Tautog

Want to wrangle some Tautog (Blackfish) around Howard Beach? You've picked a great spot. The waters surrounding Howard Beach, especially Jamaica Bay and the East Rockaway Inlet, are known for holding some impressive tog. The best time to target these hard-fighting fish is during the cooler months, particularly October through December, and again in the spring before the water warms up too much. Tautog are structure-oriented fish, so focus your efforts around bridge pilings, rock jetties, and submerged wrecks. They love to hide in these spots, ambushing their prey. Green crabs are the bait of choice for most local anglers. Use a sturdy hook and a heavy sinker to hold your bait tight to the bottom. Be prepared for a subtle bite; Tautog are notorious for their delicate takes. A practical tip: access to some of the best Tautog spots requires a boat, but there are also several public access points along the shoreline where you can fish from the rocks. Also, remember that tautog regulations can change, so check the current size and bag limits before you head out.