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Tautog

Tautog

Tautog are stout members of the wrasse family with arched heads, large lips, broad tails, and thick rubbery skin covered in protective slime.

These structure-oriented fish are opportunistic sight feeders that undergo seasonal migrations triggered by water temperature changes around 8-12°C, moving inshore in spring and offshore in winter.

Scientific Name: Tautoga onitis

Also known as blackfish

Physical Characteristics:

Stout members of the wrasse family with arched heads, large lips, broad tails, and thick rubbery skin covered in protective slime. These slow-growing fish can live over 30 years.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

Range from Nova Scotia to Georgia but are most abundant from Cape Cod to Cape Hatteras. Found in various coastal waters and numerous bays and harbors throughout the marine district.

Key Locations

Hudson River estuary, New York Bight, Long Island Sound, Jamaica Bay, Great South Bay, Peconic Bay, Montauk, Long Island Sound, Narragansett Bay

Specific Spots

Fish around jetties, bridge pilings, rocky shores, breakwaters, submerged wrecks, boulder-strewn bottoms, mussel beds, and various harbor structures typically in depths under 30 meters. Juveniles prefer sea lettuce and macroalgal habitats in shallow vegetated areas, while adults favor rocky shores and structured habitats.

Tautog FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Tautog in New York?

Blackfish jigs (1/2 to 1-ounce) with Tidaltails being highly regarded. For bait, green crabs and Asian shore crabs are top choices.

When is the best time to fish for Tautog in New York?

Two distinct seasons: April 1-30 and fall seasons that vary by region - Long Island Sound (October 11-December 9) and NY Bight (October 15-December 22)

How do you catch Tautog in New York?

Blackfish jigs work excellently in waters under 40 feet. Tautog have subtle bites - wait for the second tap before setting the hook with force to penetrate their hard mouths. Crack crab shells before fishing to release scent, and change baits every 4-5 minutes as meat washes out quickly.

What do Tautog eat?

Consume blue mussels, barnacles, crabs (especially green crabs and Asian shore crabs), clams, amphipods, isopods, decapods, and occasionally small fish. They possess specialized pharyngeal jaw apparatus with molar-like crushing teeth perfect for cracking shellfish.

Where do Tautog live in New York?

Range from Nova Scotia to Georgia but are most abundant from Cape Cod to Cape Hatteras. Found in various coastal waters and numerous bays and harbors throughout the marine district.

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