Can I Keep?Tautog (blackfish) Regulations in New York (2026)
Recreational tautog (blackfish) rules in New York saltwater, as published by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Division of Marine Resources. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Limits differ by area — the summary below is the first published rule; see every rule underneath.
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Tautog (blackfish) rules in New York
- Where
- Long Island Sound Region Marine and coastal district waters lying east of the Throgs Neck Bridge and west of a line that runs from Orient Point, NY to Watch Hill, RI
- Size limit
- 16"
- Bag limit
- 2 3
- Possession
- 2 3
- Season
- April 1 - April 30 Oct 11 - Dec 9
- Regulations were last changed on May 12, 2026 and are subject to change at any time.
- Where
- NY Bight Region Marine and coastal district waters lying outside of the Long Island Sound Region
- Size limit
- 16"
- Bag limit
- 2 4
- Possession
- 2 4
- Season
- April 1 - April 30 Oct 15 - Dec 22
- Regulations were last changed on May 12, 2026 and are subject to change at any time.
Quick answers
What is the tautog (blackfish) size limit in New York?
16" (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).
How many tautog (blackfish) can I keep in New York?
2 3 (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).
When is tautog (blackfish) season in New York?
April 1 - April 30 Oct 11 - Dec 9. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
More reef fish in New York
All New York saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Division of Marine Resources. Most anglers need a New York saltwater license or registry: get one here.