Fishing For Tautog
Fishing for tautog, also known as blackfish, is a popular pastime in New England. These bottom-dwelling fish are known for their hard fight and delicious meat, making them a favorite among both sport and commercial fishermen. In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about fishing for tautog in New England, including where to find them, the gear you'll need, and some tips for landing these elusive fish.
Location Tautog can be found along the entire New England coast, but they are most abundant in certain areas depending on the time of year. In the spring and fall, look for them in rocky areas and wrecks offshore. During the summer, they can be found in shallow water around structure such as jetties, rocks, and artificial reefs.
Gear To successfully catch tautog, you'll need the right gear. A medium to heavy action rod with a sensitive tip is recommended, along with a quality reel with a strong drag system. Braided line is also a popular choice for its sensitivity and strength. You'll also need a variety of rigs and bait, including a high-low rig with small hooks, sinkers, and green crabs, Asian crabs, or whiteleg shrimp.
Techniques There are a variety of techniques that can be effective when fishing for tautog. One popular method is to use a high-low rig with a small hook, baited with a green crab, Asian crab, or whiteleg shrimp. Drop the rig to the bottom and slowly reel in the slack until you feel a bite. When you do feel a bite, give the fish some time to fully take the bait before setting the hook. You can also try vertical jigging with bucktail jigs or using soft plastics.
Tips and tricks Tautog can be finicky at times, so it's important to be patient and try different techniques until you find what works. Look for areas where there is plenty of structure, as this is where tautog are likely to be feeding. Pay attention to the tides and time of day – tautog tend to feed more actively during low light conditions such as dawn and dusk. Finally, be prepared for a fight – tautog are known for their hard runs and strong fights, so make sure your drag is set properly and be ready to handle a big fish.
In conclusion, fishing for tautog in New England is a popular and rewarding experience for any angler. With the right gear, techniques, and tips, you can increase your chances of landing these elusive fish. So get out on the water this season and try your luck at catching a tautog – it's an experience you won't forget!