Recreational:

Minimum Size: 14 inches *
Possession: 4 fish per person per day
Season Closed: May  1  to   June  24, 2010

Commercial:

Minimum Size: 14 inches *

Season Closed:  May 1 through November 12.

* Total length is measured in a straight line from tip of nose to tip of tail.

For more information, visit the VMRC website at: http://www.mrc.state.va.us/

                          

* Fish directly over structure, including shipwrecks, rocks, rubble, bridge pilings and artificial reefs.

* Use a basic top and bottom fishing rig when snags and hang ups are not a problem.

* Switch to a single hook rig in areas of extremely rough bottom.

* Carry a wide selection of sinkers ranging from 3-8 oz.

* Use a rod and reel that can handle depths from 15-120 feet, and 3-8 oz. sinkers.

* Fish with braided lines for added sensitivity.

* Use baits such as blue crabs, green crabs, mole crabs, fiddler crabs, shrimp and clams.

* When fishing whole blue crabs or green crabs, some anglers imbed both hooks in a single bait and remove or crack the shell of the crab.

* When using cut crab, leave the legs on and check baits often. Replace baits that have had the meat sucked out of the shell.

* Avoid excessive tension on the line and pay attention for minute signs of nibbling. Give a short tug upward when movement is felt. If the fish appears to be in the line, set the hook, lift the fish away from structure and then reel in gently.

* Tag and release undersize fish.

* Take no more fish than needed. Release female fish when possible.

* Identify sexes – Male tautog have blunter heads and darker, more solid coloring with a faint lighter spot on their flank. Females have a more mottled appearance and sloping forehead.

* Support Artificial Reef programs

Virginia Tautog Links

Tautog T-shirts, Stickers, Logos, Artwork

How to Clean and Fillet Tautog

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