The winter thaw is officially behind us, and for Southern New England’s hardcore bottom-fishing community, that means only one thing: the return of the tautog. Starting April 1, anglers from the Long Island Sound to Buzzards Bay will once again find themselves dropping crabs and jigs into the rock piles as the 2026 spring blackfish season officially kicks off.
Known for their legendary no-quit attitude and their versatility as table fare, tog have a loyal following that has been chomping at the bit since their last catches in the fall. Whether you’re working nearshore ledges of Rhode Island or the fabled New Haven Walls in Connecticut, the anticipation is palpable.
While the early season is typically tougher, the bite usually gets going by third week of April. If you’re looking for some tips on notching that first tog of the spring, grab your April issue and read Tog Tips: Finding Spring Success written by Capt. Brandon Hagopian, this story gives great insights and will set you up for early season success.
Be sure to brush up on the regulations for the area you intend to fish, as dates and bag limits vary across the region.
2026 Spring Tautog Regulations at a Glance
- Rhode Island: The season opens April 1 and runs through May 31. Anglers are allowed three fish per person with a 16-inch minimum size. Note that in Rhode Island, only one fish over 21 inches may be kept, and there is a 10-fish maximum per vessel.
- Connecticut: The spring window is brief but productive, opening April 1 and closing April 30. The limit is two fish per person with a 16-inch minimum size.
- Massachusetts: The Bay State tog season also kicks off on April 1, running through May 31. Anglers can harvest three fish per person with a 16-inch minimum size. Like Rhode Island, only one fish over 21 inches is permitted per limit, per day.
As you prepare for this momentous opening, tying rigs, sharpening jigs and loading up on sinkers, remember that these fish are structure-oriented and often found in the tightest corners of the reef. Safety should remain at the forefront during the early spring when water temperatures are still quite low; always check the marine forecast and ensure all safety gear is accessible before heading out.
For up-to-the-minute reports on where the bite is turning on first, make regular checks on our website for our famous fishing reports and follow our YouTube Channel to get alerts for when our Weekly Fishing Forecast videos are posted.
