Jersey Shore Cod & Tautog Charter
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Target cod and tautog on this inshore fishing adventureAccommodates up to six guests for family and friendsOperated by experienced Jerzey Buoyz Sport Fishing crew
Looking to switch things up from your usual fishing routine? This Jersey Shore inshore charter puts you right where the action is for some of the most rewarding bottom fishing on the East Coast. With Captain and crew from Jerzey Buoyz Sport Fishing, you'll spend your day targeting two of New Jersey's premier cold-water species - Atlantic Cod and Tautog. These fish don't mess around, and neither do we. Pack up to 6 anglers for a day that combines serious fishing with the kind of relaxed atmosphere that makes for perfect family memories.
This isn't your typical run-and-gun trip. We're talking about methodical bottom fishing over structure where patience pays off big time. You'll be working relatively close to shore, which means more time fishing and less time running to the grounds. The Jersey coast offers incredible underwater terrain - rocky bottoms, artificial reefs, and natural ledges that hold these fish year after year. Captain knows exactly where to put you, and the bite can turn on fast when conditions line up right. Expect to be anchored up most of the day, working different depths and adjusting your approach based on what the fish are telling us. The boat accommodates up to 6 anglers comfortably, so there's plenty of room to spread out and work your rods without getting tangled up with your buddies.
We're fishing with conventional tackle designed for structure - medium to heavy action rods that can handle the pull of a good fish plus the drag from rocky bottom. You'll be dropping rigs with enough weight to stay put in the current, typically running 4 to 8 ounces depending on conditions. Bait selection is crucial for both species, and we'll have you rigged with fresh offerings that cod and tog can't resist. For tautog, think green crabs, white leggers, and clams presented right on the bottom. Cod prefer cut bait, clams, and sometimes squid depending on the season. The key is keeping your bait in the strike zone without getting hung up in the rocks. You'll learn to feel the difference between a fish pick-up and bottom contact - it's a skill that separates good bottom fishermen from great ones. Expect some lost tackle; it's part of the game when you're fishing prime structure.
Tautog, or "blackfish" as locals call them, are the bulldogs of the bottom. These fish average 2-4 pounds but can push 8-10 pounds or more when you find the right fish. They're incredibly strong for their size, using their broad tails and body shape to leverage against the rocks. Tog have a unique feeding behavior - they'll often "mouth" the bait before committing, so you need to let them take it and run before setting the hook. Peak season runs from late fall through early spring when they're most aggressive. What makes them special is their fight-to-size ratio and the fact that they're excellent table fare with sweet, white meat that's worth every minute of the battle.
Atlantic Cod are making a comeback along the Jersey coast, and when you hook into one, you'll understand why anglers get so excited about them. These fish can range from keeper-size around 22 inches up to 40+ inch specimens that'll test your tackle and your patience. Cod are opportunistic feeders that patrol the bottom looking for an easy meal, making them perfect targets for our bottom fishing approach. They're most active during cooler months, which lines up perfectly with tog season. The fight is different from tautog - more of a steady, headshaking battle as they try to get back down to structure. Cod are also prized for their firm, flaky white meat that's incredibly versatile in the kitchen.
This top-rated charter combines two of New Jersey's best bottom fishing targets in one trip, giving you variety and consistent action when conditions cooperate. Whether you're looking to introduce family members to serious fishing or just want to try something different from your usual routine, this trip delivers. The 6-angler capacity means you can bring your crew without feeling crowded, and the inshore location keeps travel time to a minimum. Remember to bring your fishing license, dress in layers for changing conditions, and come ready to learn some new techniques that'll make you a better bottom fisherman. Captain and crew handle all the gear and bait, so just show up ready to fish. Book now to secure your date - the best fishing windows fill up fast, especially when word gets out about good cod and tog fishing.
Get ready to chase cod and tautog aboard this beautifully restored 26' Shamrock! This classic 1992 boat got a complete makeover in 2021 and runs like a dream with its powerful 370HP Mercury engine. You'll cruise out to the fishing grounds at a solid 32 knots, covering more water to find where the fish are biting. The boat comes loaded with everything serious anglers need - GPS to mark your favorite spots, radar for those foggy Jersey mornings, and a fish finder to locate schools below. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over structure where tautog love to hide. Between fishing, you can enjoy the multimedia system or grab a snack. There's even a bed for anyone who needs a quick rest and a toilet so you don't have to cut the trip short. With space for up to 6 people, it's perfect for bringing the crew along. These cod and tautog put up a great fight and make for excellent eating, so you'll head home with both great memories and a cooler full of fresh fish from New Jersey's productive waters.
Gadus MorhuaAtlantic cod are one of those classic northeast fish that really put up a solid fight. Most run 5-15 pounds, but we see some nice 20+ pounders mixed in. They hang out in deeper water, usually 60-150 feet over rocky bottom and structure. Winter months are prime time - December through March when they move in closer to spawn. What guests love is the steady pull they give plus the fact that cod are some of the best eating fish in the ocean. Firm, white, flaky meat that's perfect for the dinner table. These fish are bottom huggers, so you want to keep your bait right on the deck. Pro tip: fresh clams work great, but if you tip your jig with a piece of squid, the scent trail really draws them in from a distance.
Tautoga OnitisAlso called blackfish, tautog are stocky fighters that love hanging around rocky structure and wrecks. These guys run 1-3 pounds on average, though bigger ones hit the scales at 8-10 pounds. What makes them fun is they're stubborn - they'll try to wrap you around every piece of structure they can find. You'll find them in 20-60 feet of water around jetties, reefs, and boulder fields. Spring through fall is prime time, especially April through June when they're feeding heavy after spawning. The meat is excellent - firm and white with a mild taste. Here's a tip that works well out here: use green crabs for bait, but crush up some shells and toss them overboard first to get them fired up. They'll come looking for an easy meal.
Newark