Tautog: Facts, Records, and How to Catch Them | FishyAF
What is a Tautog?
The Tautog — better known as “Tog” or “Blackfish” — is the rocky-bottom brawler of the Northeast. Thick-bodied, rubber-lipped, and built like a gym rat, these fish live in wrecks, reefs, and rock piles where they crush crabs and test your gear. If your hook set and drag game aren’t dialed in, a Tog will embarrass you instantly.
The first FishyAF Tautog was landed by @lillybrady26 — proving she’s got the quick hookset and pure grit required to beat these structure-loving bruisers.
This guide breaks down where Tautog hide, what bait they can’t resist, and how to win the first 3 seconds of every Tog fight — because that’s all that matters. Click here to see what Tog slayers are wearing.
🐟 Tautog Quick Facts
| Fact | Info |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tautoga onitis |
| Average Size | 2–6 lbs typical; double-digits are trophies |
| World Record | 28 lbs 13 oz — Connecticut (IGFA) |
| Habitat | Rock piles, wrecks, jetties, reefs — anywhere rugged with crabs |
| Edible? | Yes — white, flaky, and elite table fare |
❓ FAQs About Tautog
Where can you catch Tautog?
From Virginia to Maine, especially around heavy structure: wrecks, boulders, bridge pilings, and lobster gear. If it’s gnarly, Tog love it.
How big do Tautog get?
Most fish are 2–6 lbs, but 10+ lb Tautog (“whitechins”) are the dream. The true giants lurk in deep wrecks and winter structure.
What is the world record Tautog?
The IGFA world record is a **28 lb 13 oz** monster caught in Long Island Sound. That’s more boulder than fish.
Are Tautog good to eat?
Absolutely — one of the best-tasting Northeast species. Firm, white meat perfect for frying, baking, or chowder.
How do you catch Tautog?
Drop a green crab, Asian crab, or fiddler crab straight into structure with a strong hook and heavy leader. Be ready — the bite is fast, and the fish runs for home instantly.
What’s the best bait for Tautog?
Green crabs, Asian crabs, Jonah crab chunks, or hermit crabs. Fresh, crunchy baits are king.
When is the best time to catch Tautog?
Spring and fall are peak seasons. They bite in cold water, making Tog one of the best shoulder-season fisheries in the Northeast.
😂 FishyAF Tautog Joke
Tautog — the only fish that makes you question whether your hookset was actually “good enough.” Spoiler: it wasn’t.
🚨 WE NEED YOUR HELP…
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🧢 Gear Up with FishyAF
Drop rigs and rock piles demand toughness — grab our Switchback Hats and Performance Hoodies built for cold-water bottom battles.