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 Shelter Island. Right now in May, activity is moderate.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tautog
Tautog, also known as blackfish, provide a challenging and rewarding fishing experience around Shelter Island. These fish are masters of structure, inhabiting rocky bottoms, wrecks, and pilings. Fall is the prime season for tautog, as they move inshore to feed before winter. Look for them around the rocky shorelines of Shelter Island, especially near points and inlets. A common tactic is using a stout rod and reel with a heavy jig or baited hook to get down to the bottom quickly. Green crabs are the bait of choice for most local anglers. Be prepared for subtle bites and quick hooksets, as tautog are notorious bait stealers. The waters around Plum Island, just east of Shelter Island, are known for holding good numbers of tautog, but be mindful of strong currents in that area.
Plan a Trip to Shelter Island
See what's biting in Shelter Island, 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 is the season for Tautog (Blackfish) near Shelter Island?
The Tautog season is April 1st through December 9th.
What is the minimum size Tautog I can keep near Shelter Island?
The minimum size limit for Tautog is 16 inches.
How many Tautog can I keep per day near Shelter Island?
The bag limit for Tautog is 4 per person.
Do I need a license to fish for Tautog near Shelter Island?
Yes, you need to be registered with the Recreational Marine Fishing Registry.
More Tautog Fishing in New York
Other Species to Fish in Shelter Island
Ready to Catch Tautog in Shelter Island?
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