Fishing Charters in Virginia
Browse fishing charters in Virginia that can help you catch tautog.
Takedown Sportfishing
saltwater fishing boat cruise charter boat cobia stripers rockfish flounder tog tautog spadefish triggerfish sheepshead saltwater charters offshore charters fishing
Playin Hookey Charters
Virginia Beach Fishing Charter that runs out of Rudee inlet. Sportfishing, family fishing, inshore fishing, offshore fishing, swordfishing, tuna fishing, seabass, Tautog, Cobia, flounder, group charters.
Class Act Charters LLC
Class Act Charters runs the best Fishing Charter. Learn more about Chesapeake Bay Fishing Charter, Black Drum, Bluefish., Cobia, Redfish, Sea Bass, Sheepshead, Spadefish, Spanish Mackerel, Striped Bass, Tautog, Chesapeake Bay Fishing Charter, Chesapeake Bay Fishing Report, chesapeake bay fishing seasons
Best Time to Catch Tautog
Tautog can be caught year-round in Chincoteague Island. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Tautog
Chincoteague Island offers unique tautog fishing opportunities around its numerous docks, bridge pilings, and rocky structures in the Assateague Channel and nearby inlets. These areas provide the perfect habitat for tautog, also known as blackfish. The best time to target these bottom-dwellers is during the cooler months, specifically spring and fall, when water temperatures hover between 50-60°F. Focus on areas with significant structure, as tautog are ambush predators. A key to success is using natural baits like green crabs or fiddler crabs, presented on a jig head or a simple bottom rig. Adjust your depth based on the tide and current; tautog tend to hug the bottom. Be aware that access to some of the prime tautog spots may require a boat, but there are several public boat ramps around Chincoteague. The tautog population here is known for its decent size, with fish frequently reaching several pounds.
How to Catch Tautog
Tautog Fishing Regulations in Virginia
Open Season
January 1 – March 31 and April 1 – December 31
Daily Bag Limit
4 per person
Size Limit
16-inch minimum
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Check current regulations for any in-season adjustments.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Virginia state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
When is tautog season open near Chincoteague Island?
Tautog season is open from January 1st to March 31st, and then again from April 1st to December 31st. Be sure to check the specific dates and any potential changes before heading out.
What's the minimum size tautog I can keep in Virginia?
The minimum size limit for tautog in Virginia is 16 inches. Any tautog you catch that doesn't meet this length must be released.
What is the daily bag limit for tautog in Virginia?
You are allowed to keep 4 tautog per person per day. Always verify the current regulations to stay within the legal limits.
Is a saltwater license needed to fish for tautog around Chincoteague Island?
Yes, you will need a valid Virginia saltwater fishing license to legally target tautog in the saltwater and brackish waters around Chincoteague Island.
More Tautog Fishing in Virginia
Other Species to Fish in Chincoteague Island
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