NY Angler RegulationsOfficial New York State Fishing Rules

Tautog (Blackfish)

Tautoga onitis

OPEN

Hard-fighting bottom fish around structure.

Season closes in 55 days

Fishing Regulations

Season

April 1 - May 31

Size Limit

16 inches minimum

Bag Limit

2-4 fish (varies by season and region)

Special Regulations

**Long Island Sound Region** (Marine waters east of Throgs Neck Bridge, west of Orient Point to Watch Hill line): • April 1 to April 30: 16" minimum, 2 fish per day • October 11 to December 9: 16" minimum, 3 fish per day **NY Bight Region** (Marine waters outside Long Island Sound Region): • April 1 to April 30: 16" minimum, 2 fish per day • October 15 to December 22: 16" minimum, 4 fish per day Closed all other dates.

Habitat & Where to Find Them

Rocky bottoms, jetties, reefs, and wrecks. Depth 10-60 feet. Prefers complex structure. Found in Long Island Sound and Atlantic waters.

Seasonal Patterns & Best Times to Fish

Spring (April-May) move inshore. Summer on reefs and rocks. Fall (October-November) peak fishing. Winter some remain inshore. Best fishing spring and fall.

Identification Tips

Dark gray-black, mottled coloring. Thick lips. Blunt head. Powerful teeth for crushing shellfish. Slimy skin. Size 2-6 pounds common, up to 15+ pounds.

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Important: Fishing regulations are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the official NY DEC website before fishing.