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 Port Byron. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tautog
Tautog, also known as blackfish, are a prized catch for anglers willing to put in the effort. While Port Byron isn't coastal, targeting tautog requires a trip to the rocky structures and wrecks of Long Island Sound. Fall is prime time, as tautog move inshore to spawn. They are notoriously picky eaters, so fresh bait like green crabs is essential. Fish tight to the structure using a bottom rig. Given the distance from Port Byron, consider launching from a marina closer to the coast. Tautog are masters of cover, so expect to lose some gear. Many of the larger fish are caught in deeper water, so be prepared to fish in depths of 30-60 feet. The tautog fishery is carefully managed, so be sure to check current regulations regarding size and bag limits.
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 time of year to target tautog near Port Byron, NY?
The tautog (blackfish) season in New York runs from April 1st to December 9th, so aim for those months. Tautog fishing is best during the spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate.
What's the minimum size tautog I can keep when fishing near Port Byron?
In New York, the minimum size limit for tautog is 16 inches. Any tautog you catch that is shorter than 16 inches must be released.
How many tautog can I keep per day in the Port Byron area?
The bag limit for tautog in New York is 4 fish per person per day. Make sure to adhere to this limit to help maintain a healthy fish population.
Do I need a license to fish for tautog in the saltwater or brackish waters near Port Byron?
Yes, you need to be registered with the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry to legally fish for tautog in the marine and brackish waters around Port Byron, NY.
More Tautog Fishing in New York
Other Species to Fish in Port Byron
Ready to Catch Tautog in Port Byron?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.