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 Island Park. Right now in March, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tautog
Tautog, also known as blackfish, are a prized catch around Island Park, demanding patience and skill. These fish are structure-oriented, preferring rocky bottoms, wrecks, and pilings. The best time to target tautog is during the fall and winter months when the water cools. They are notoriously finicky eaters, requiring precise bait presentation and a quick hookset. Green crabs are the bait of choice, fished on a bottom rig with heavy weight to hold the bottom in strong currents. Try fishing around the bridges and jetties near Jones Inlet. A key tip is to use a stiff rod and braided line to feel the subtle bites. Tautog are strong fighters, known for their powerful initial runs. The local population is known to hold some real bruisers, so be prepared for a battle!
Plan a Trip to Island Park
See what's biting in Island Park, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
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 to use for Tautog in Island Park?
Tautog in Island Park respond well to crab, clams, and worms. Green crabs are a local favorite.
What is the Tautog season and bag limit in Island Park, NY?
The Tautog season runs from April 1st to December 9th. The bag limit is 4 fish per person.
Is there a size restriction for Tautog I catch near Island Park?
Yes, the minimum size limit for Tautog in New York is 16 inches. Any Tautog smaller than that must be released.
Do I need a license to fish for Tautog in Island Park's saltwater?
Yes, you need a Recreational Marine Fishing Registry to fish for Tautog in the saltwater or brackish waters around Island Park, NY.
More Tautog Fishing in New York
Other Species to Fish in Island Park
Ready to Catch Tautog in Island Park?
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