Captain’s Weekly Fishing Report October 3, 2024
October 5, 2024
Captain’s Weekly Fishing Report Oct 17, 2024
October 16, 2024Opening Day of Blackfish (Tautog) Season: A Fall Tradition Begins
The wait is over. This Friday, October 11th, marks the much-anticipated opening day of the blackfish (tautog) season. It’s an exciting time of year for all of us at Sand City Fishing, and we’ve got our live wells stocked to the brim with green crabs, the bait of choice for these notorious fighters. There’s nothing like tautog season—the crisp fall air, the changing leaves, and, of course, the hunt for one of the most challenging and rewarding fish of the year.
Why We Love Tautog Season
Tautog, often referred to as blackfish, are known for their strength and wit. They have a unique habit of hugging structure—whether it’s rocky ledges, wrecks, or reefs—making them tricky to hook. But once they bite, you know you’re in for a battle. Their powerful runs and bulldogging resistance are what makes targeting them so addictive.
As we move into mid-October, water temperatures are perfect for tautog, and their feeding activity is on the rise. They tend to stay tight to structure, so if you’re not getting hung up on rocks or wrecks every now and then, you’re probably not fishing close enough.
The Bait and Setup
Our live wells are loaded with green crabs, and there’s no better bait for blackfish. Whether you’re fishing from a boat or the rocks, these little crustaceans are irresistible to tautog. We like to split them in half, removing the claws and legs, and rig them on a stout hook with a simple dropper rig. You’ll want a sturdy rod and reel combo because these fish are notorious for pulling your line into rocks, where they can easily break off.
Key Areas to Target
Opening day means the reefs and wrecks will be prime spots, especially where the underwater structures provide plenty of hiding places for tautog. Here around Sand City, we know a few honey holes that will surely hold some hefty blackfish. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, targeting tautog requires patience, but the reward is more than worth it. And remember, the biggest ones tend to come from the spots others overlook.
A Time to Enjoy the Water
As we head out this Friday, there’s an extra buzz of excitement on the water. Tautog season brings together the angling community, with local captains, fishermen, and charter clients all eager to land their personal best. It’s a great time of year to be on the water, soaking in the natural beauty of the coast while battling one of the toughest fish around.
If you’re as excited as we are for the start of tautog season, load up on green crabs, find your favorite structure, and get ready for some heart-pounding action. Tight lines, and we’ll see you out there!
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Sand City Fishing
Fishing the Fall, One Blackfish at a Time