For any avid angler, the thrill of catching a Tautog is undeniably exciting. Known for their aggressive nature and delicious taste, Tautog, also known as blackfish or tog, is a highly sought-after fish on the East Coast. And while they may not be as popular as other game fish like tuna or bass, successfully reeling in a big tog can give you just as much satisfaction. But capturing this elusive species requires more than just luck and patience – it takes skill and strategy.

In this post, we’ll dive into the world of Tautog fishing and learn all about their behavior patterns, preferred habitats, best bait options, and essential techniques to help you improve your chances of catching one. So grab your rods and get ready to learn everything you need to know about how to catch tautog like a pro!

9 Best Ways on How to Catch Tautog

1. Know the Species:

Before heading out to fish for Tautog, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of their biology and habits. Tautog are bottom-dwelling fish that can be found in rocky areas, wrecks, and other structures along the coast. They prefer water temperatures between 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit and are most active during the spring and fall months. Understanding these basic facts will help you narrow down your search and increase your chances of finding a good spot to catch them.

2. Choose the Right Gear:

When it comes to Tautog fishing, using the right gear is crucial. These fish are powerful and have sharp teeth, so a strong rod paired with a sturdy reel is necessary. A medium-heavy rod with a strong backbone and a sensitive tip is ideal for this type of fishing. For the reel, choose one with a high-quality drag and gear ratio to help you land the fish smoothly. Choosing the right line and leader material is also crucial, as Tautog has excellent eyesight and can be easily spooked.

3. Use Heavy-Duty Line:

To cope with Tautog’s strength and ability to snag in rocks and structures, it’s best to use heavy-duty lines between 50-80 lbs. Braided lines are an excellent choice as they have high abrasion resistance and don’t stretch, allowing you to feel every bite. Using a shock leader made of fluorocarbon or monofilament line is also recommended to help prevent break-offs.

4. Find the Right Spot:

Tautog are structure-loving fish, so finding the right spot is key to success. Look for areas with rocky bottoms, wrecks, jetties, bridge pilings, or any structure that can provide shelter and food. They are also known to gather around mussel beds and artificial reefs, making them ideal locations to target. This fish can often be found in shallow waters, so don’t be afraid to explore different depths.

5. Use the Right Bait:

Tautog are opportunistic feeders and will readily take a variety of bait, making it easier to catch them. The best bait options include green crabs, Asian shore crabs, fiddler crabs, sand fleas, and shrimp. For artificial baits, use jigs with crab or shrimp imitations to entice bites. Tautog responds well to movement, so make sure to jig the bait slowly near the bottom. Using a hook size between 1/0 to 3/0 is recommended.

6. Master the Technique:

One of the essential techniques in Tautog fishing is using a slow and steady approach. This fish has a slower metabolism, so it takes its time when chasing prey. Jigging your bait too quickly or erratically will likely result in missed bites. Instead, move your bait slowly and gently bounce it off the bottom to imitate a natural movement. Another technique is to use a high-low rig, also known as a chicken rig, with multiple hooks for better chances of hooking onto Tautog.

7. Use Circle Hooks:

When targeting Tautog, it’s best to use circle hooks instead of traditional J-hooks. Circle hooks are designed to hook the fish in the corner of their mouth, reducing the chances of gut-hooking them. This not only increases their survival rate but also helps preserve the quality of the meat. Using circle hooks also allows you to fish with a lighter drag, making the fight more enjoyable.

8. Be Patient and Persistent:

Catching Tautog requires patience and persistence. They are known for being cautious and will often inspect the bait before taking it, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t get a bite right away. It’s essential to stay focused and keep trying different techniques and locations until you find the right combination that works. This fish can also be found in schools, so if you catch one, there’s a good chance that there are more nearby.

9. Practice Proper Handling and Release:

As with any type of fishing, practicing proper handling and release techniques is crucial for the conservation of Tautog. When catching a Tautog, avoid touching their bodies as they have a protective slime layer that can be easily damaged. Instead, use a wet rag or glove to handle them, and gently release them back into the water. If you plan on keeping your catch, make sure to follow the local regulations and size limits.

Following these tips and techniques will greatly improve your chances of catching Tautog. However, it’s essential to remember that fishing is not just about the result but also about enjoying the process. So take in the beautiful surroundings, enjoy the thrill of the fight, and appreciate the opportunity to catch such a unique species like Tautog. Happy fishing!

Additional Tips and Tricks to Catch Tautog

1. If you’re fishing from a boat, try drifting over different structures and depths until you find an area with good Tautog activity.
2. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different bait options, as Tautog can have specific preferences depending on their location and surroundings.
3. Use a leader line between 30-50 lbs to help prevent break-offs while still providing enough strength to land the fish.
4. When jigging, try using small and subtle movements instead of big and jerky ones. This will help entice bites from cautious Tautog.
5. For a fun and challenging experience, try fly fishing for Tautog using crab or shrimp imitations as flies.
6. As Tautog are known to have a “soft bite,” pay attention to any subtle nibbles or changes in the weight of your line, as these could indicate a bite.
7. Tautog can also be caught during the winter months, but it may require fishing deeper waters and using heavier gear.
8. Consider hiring a local guide or joining a charter trip if you’re new to Tautog fishing. They can provide valuable insights and techniques specific to the area you’re fishing.
9. Always practice proper safety measures when fishing, such as wearing a life jacket, checking weather conditions, and having a first aid kit on board.

Following these additional tips and tricks can greatly enhance your Tautog fishing experience and help you catch more of these elusive fish. Remember to always follow local regulations and practice responsible fishing techniques to ensure the sustainability of Tautog populations for future generations. Now, get out there and start catching some Tautog!

Things You Should Consider to Catch Tautog

1. The first thing you should consider when planning a Tautog fishing trip is the time of year. While these fish can be caught year-round, they are most active during the spring and fall months.
2. Knowing the type of structure and bait preferences of Tautog in your chosen fishing location is also crucial for success.
3. Check local regulations to ensure that you have the necessary permits and are following size and bag limits.
4. Tautog can be found in a wide range of depths, so it’s essential to have different types of gear available to cover various depths.
5. Remember that Tautog is an intelligent and cautious fish, so it may take some time for them to become comfortable with your bait before they strike. Be patient and don’t be afraid to try different techniques.
6. If you’re planning on keeping your catch, make sure to have a cooler or ice chest available to store the fish immediately after catching them.
7. Always keep safety in mind when fishing from a boat, especially if you’re going out alone. Let someone know where you’ll be and bring necessary safety gear.

By considering these factors, you’ll be better prepared for your Tautog fishing trip and have a higher chance of success. Have fun, stay safe, and happy fishing!  

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Bait Should I Use When Fishing for Tautog?

Popular baits for Tautog include green crabs, Asian crabs, fiddler crabs, and hermit crabs. Some anglers also have luck using shrimp, clams, and squid. Experiment with different baits to see what works best in your chosen fishing location.

How Do I Know When I’ve Caught a Tautog?

Tautog are known for their unique appearance, with features such as their protruding lips, powerful jaws, and mottled coloring. They also have an elongated dorsal fin that runs from the top of their head down to their tail. If you catch a fish with these characteristics, chances are it’s a Tautog.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Catch Tautog?

Tautog can be caught year-round, but they are most active during the spring and fall months. They tend to move into shallower waters during the spring and back out to deeper waters in the fall.

Are There Any Size or Bag Limits for Tautog?

Tautog are a regulated species, and size and bag limits vary by location. Make sure to check local regulations before fishing to ensure you are following the rules and regulations in your area.

Can Tautog Be Caught from Shore?

Yes, Tautog can be caught from shore, especially in areas with rocky bottoms and structures such as jetties, piers, and bridges. However, most anglers have better success catching Tautog from a boat.

Conclusion

With the above outlined you can easily learn how to catch tautog, the right gear, and techniques to use. Remember that fishing is a journey, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch any Tautog on your first trip. Keep practicing, and with time, you’ll become a skilled Tautog angler.

Enjoy the process, appreciate the unique characteristics of these fish, and always follow responsible fishing practices to ensure their sustainability for future generations. Now, it’s time to grab your gear and start planning your next Tautog fishing adventure!  So go out there and have a great time catching these elusive fish. Happy fishing!