New Jersey Tautog Fishing Charters
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Fullday offshore charter targeting Tautog with experienced captain guidanceAll fishing gear, bait, and licenses provided by professional crewSixperson capacity with seasonal trips starting in April
Nothing beats the feeling of hooking into a feisty tautog off the New Jersey coast. These bottom-dwelling bruisers are some of the smartest fish in the Atlantic, and they'll test every ounce of your angling skills. Jerzey Buoyz Sport Fishing runs top-rated tautog charters that put you right where the action is - whether you want to stay inshore or venture into deeper offshore waters where the big blackfish roam. With a maximum of 6 anglers on board, you'll have plenty of room to work and won't be fighting for rail space like on those crowded party boats.
Your full-day tautog adventure starts early, usually around sunrise when these fish are most active. The captain knows exactly where to find structure - wrecks, reefs, and rocky bottom that tautog call home. You've got two options: book the inshore rate for productive nearshore spots, or upgrade to the $1050 offshore package to hit the deeper wrecks where trophy tog hang out. The crew provides all your tackle, bait, and licenses, so you just need to bring yourself and maybe some snacks since meals aren't included. April is prime time for this fishery, but regulations can shift year to year, so the captain will keep you updated on current rules and bag limits. The boat handles beautifully in offshore conditions, and you'll appreciate the stability when you're trying to feel that subtle tautog bite through 60 feet of water.
Tautog fishing is all about finesse and feel. The captain rigs you up with medium-heavy conventional gear spooled with braided line - you need that sensitivity to detect the light taps that signal a tog mouthing your bait. Bottom rigs typically feature a bank sinker heavy enough to hold bottom in the current, with a short leader and a small hook. Green crabs are the go-to bait, though white leggers and Asian crabs work great too. The key is getting your rig tight to structure without hanging up in the rocks. You'll learn to work that fine line between staying close enough to attract fish but far enough away to avoid losing tackle. When a tautog picks up your bait, you might just feel a slight weight or see your line move sideways - set the hook immediately or they'll steal your crab and disappear back into the rocks. The fight is pure power in close quarters, with these fish using every ledge and crevice to try breaking you off.
Tautog, also called blackfish, are one of New Jersey's most prized bottom fish. These chunky fighters typically range from 2 to 8 pounds, but 10-plus pounders cruise the deeper offshore wrecks and reefs. They're built like underwater bulldogs - thick bodies, powerful jaws, and an attitude to match. Tautog are homebodies that rarely stray far from their chosen structure, which makes them predictable targets if you know where to look. Spring and fall offer the best fishing, with April being peak season as they move into shallower water after spawning. What makes tautog so appealing to anglers is their incredible table fare - firm, white meat that's perfect for chowder or simply pan-fried. They're also notorious bait stealers with their crushing jaws and human-like front teeth designed for plucking crabs and mussels off rocks. A big tautog will give you a workout, bulldogging toward bottom and using every piece of structure to try shaking the hook. Landing a trophy blackfish requires patience, skill, and a little luck - which is exactly why New Jersey anglers keep coming back for more.
Ready to test your skills against New Jersey's craftiest bottom dweller? Jerzey Buoyz Sport Fishing puts you on fish with their local knowledge and top-notch equipment. Whether you choose the inshore option or splurge for the offshore adventure, you're in for a day of challenging angling and potential trophy fish. The 6-person limit ensures personalized attention from the crew and plenty of fishing room for everyone. Remember to bring drinks, snacks, and your camera - tautog photos always look great, and you'll want to document any personal bests. April books up fast since it's prime tautog season, so don't wait too long to secure your dates. These fish won't catch themselves, and spots on quality charter boats fill quickly when the bite is hot. Book your New Jersey tautog charter today and get ready to match wits with some of the Atlantic's smartest fish.
Jump aboard this beautifully restored 26' Shamrock and head out to New Jersey's prime tautog grounds. This classic 1992 boat got a complete makeover in 2021 and runs strong with a 370HP Mercury that'll cruise you to the fishing spots at 32 knots. Perfect for up to 6 anglers looking to target blackfish in deeper waters. The boat's loaded with everything serious fishermen need - GPS and radar to navigate safely, plus a quality fish finder to locate those rocky bottom structures where tautog love to hang out. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over the best spots without spooking fish. When you need a break from fighting fish, there's a comfortable bed and head onboard, plus a multimedia system for the ride out. Your captain knows these waters inside and out and provides all the gear, bait, and licenses you'll need for a successful day chasing tautog. April's prime season, but regulations can shift so the captain will keep you updated on the best timing. This is the real deal offshore fishing experience - book the higher rate card and get ready to battle some serious blackfish in deeper Jersey waters.
Newark