Looking to tangle with one of Rhode Island's toughest inshore fighters? Our 6-hour tautog trip is just the ticket. We'll hit the hottest wrecks and reefs, armed with both light and heavy tackle to give you a shot at some real bruisers. From September through October, these "blackfish" are at their peak, and trust me, once you feel that first bite, you'll be hooked for life.
We'll shove off at the crack of dawn - 6 AM sharp - every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from September 1st through October 31st. That's prime time for tautog, when they're fattening up and ready to rumble. We've got room for up to 4 anglers, so bring your crew or make some new fishing buddies. At $600 for the whole boat, it's a steal for a private charter targeting one of RI's most sought-after gamefish.
Tautog fishing isn't for the faint of heart. These bucktoothed brawlers love to hang around structure, so we'll be dropping lines near wrecks, reefs, and rocky bottoms. We use a mix of light and heavy tackle, depending on the conditions and the size of the fish we're after. Expect to feel that telltale tap-tap-tap, then hold on tight - tautog are known for their powerful initial run and their knack for wrapping you around the nearest obstruction. It's all part of the fun, and I'll be right there to help you land that trophy tog.
"The captain was ready when we arrived, and the boat was spotless and clearly well cared for. He came fully stocked with plenty of fresh, live bait—more than enough for the day. Throughout the trip, he was friendly, professional, and clearly knew his stuff. We landed our main target, Tautog, and also picked up some Sea Bass, Porgy, and even a Puffer Fish. The equipment was top-notch and worked flawlessly. If I get the chance, I'd love to return and try for Bonito with him next time!" - David
Tautog, also known as blackfish, are the bulldogs of the inshore fishing world. These thick-bodied, hard-fighting fish are a favorite among Rhode Island anglers for good reason. They typically range from 2 to 10 pounds, but monsters over 20 pounds aren't unheard of. Tautog are structure-loving fish, hanging around rocky areas, wrecks, and reefs where they feed on crabs, mussels, and other shellfish.
What makes tautog fishing so exciting is their aggressive bite and powerful initial run. When you hook one, be ready for a battle - they'll do their best to wrap your line around any nearby obstruction. Their tough mouths and bony jaws make them a challenge to hook, but that just adds to the satisfaction when you bring one aboard.
Fall is prime time for tautog fishing in Rhode Island. As water temperatures cool, these fish start feeding heavily to fatten up for winter. This makes September and October the perfect months to target trophy-sized tautog. Not only are they great fighters, but tautog are also excellent table fare, with firm, white flesh that's prized by seafood lovers.
If you're itching for some hard-hitting inshore action, our Rhode Island tautog trip is calling your name. With prime dates from September through October, now's the time to lock in your spot. Remember, we're talking about a private charter here - that means personalized attention and the flexibility to fish how you want. Whether you're a seasoned tog angler or looking to tangle with these bruisers for the first time, we've got you covered. Don't let another season slip by without experiencing some of the best inshore fishing Rhode Island has to offer. Check our availability and let's get you on the water!
October 20, 2024
Tautog, or blackfish, are the bulldogs of Rhode Island's inshore waters. These tough customers hang out around rocky structure and wrecks, using their strong teeth to crunch crabs and shellfish. Most run 1-3 pounds, but trophy fish over 10 pounds aren't unheard of. Fall's the prime time to tangle with tautog as they fatten up before winter. You'll find them from the shallows out to about 60 feet deep. They're not speedsters, but man can they pull. Once hooked, they'll dive straight for their rocky lairs trying to break you off. Anglers prize tautog for their tasty white meat and the challenge of extracting them from structure. Light tackle adds to the fun, but you'll want some muscle to keep them honest. Here's a local trick: If you're not getting bites, crush up some crab pieces and toss them overboard. That scent trail often triggers a feeding frenzy. Just be ready when they turn on!
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Maycraft
Maximum Cruising Speed: 20
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150
The captain was ready when we arrived, and the boat was spotless and clearly well cared for. He came fully stocked with plenty of fresh, live bait—more than enough for the day. Throughout the trip, he was friendly, professional, and clearly knew his stuff. We landed our main target, Tautog, and also picked up some Sea Bass, Porgy, and even a Puffer Fish. The equipment was top-notch and worked flawlessly. If I get the chance, I’d love to return and try for Bonito with him next time!