Every year we see it, the tautog season closes in Connecticut and a common confusion ripples through the local fishing community: anglers continue posting photos of blackfish and some Connecticut anglers rush to call them out for fishing out of season. While Connecticut anglers are forced to hand up their tog gear on April 30th, it is important for anglers in all three states to remember that the spring tautog bite is still legal and viable in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
For those planning to hit the wrecks and rock piles in one of these states, the season remains wide open and productive. Rhode Island and Massachusetts have tailored their regulations to ensure anglers can continue to enjoy this structure-focused fishery throughout the month of May.
In Rhode Island, the spring season remains active through May 31st with a daily bag limit of three fish per person. It is worth noting the vessel limit for those heading out with a crew; regardless of the number of anglers on board, the maximum catch remains ten fish per vessel. Over in Massachusetts, the season likewise holds steady through the end of May with a daily limit of three fish.
Across both states, the fundamental rules of the road remain the same: a 16-inch minimum size is strictly enforced, and anglers are limited to keeping only one trophy fish greater than 21 inches per day. These conservation-minded slot limits are designed to protect the breeding stock while allowing fishermen to bring home a high-quality meal. Additionally, many conservation-minded captains strongly suggest releasing all the females, since spring is their spawning season.
So, for Connecticut anglers trolling social media for toggers fishing outside the law, make sure you know where your supposed offender is fishing before you call them out. And if you’re feeling like you need a little more blackfish in your life, consider trailering across state lines, your saltwater license is reciprocal and as long as you don’t drift back into the waters of your home state (or New York) you can continue togging, ‘til your heart’s content.
