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Catching blackfish, also known as tautog, in the waters around New York City can be a rewarding experience for anglers. But blackfish are not a year-round fish, nor are they something that you can assume will be there any time you are on the water. You have to understand the optimal water temperature for blackfish fishing, so you know both what seasons to catch tautog and what time of day is best.

Optimal Water Temperature for Blackfish

Blackfish thrive in specific temperature conditions, and knowing these can greatly enhance your fishing success. These conditions include:

• Ideal Temperature Range – Blackfish are typically most active and feed aggressively when water temperatures are between 55°F and 65°F.
• Seasonal Variations – In the NYC area, these optimal temperatures are generally found in the late spring through early fall, peaking during October and November, although the change in the seasons means blackfishing can go well into December and January.
• Temperature and Depth Relationship – As temperatures vary with depth, blackfish may move to different depths to find comfortable conditions, affecting where and how you should fish.

Typically we at Marilyn Jean go out on the water for blackfish only during specific seasons and times, and the rest of the year we catch other fish like porgy and striped bass. If you follow our Facebook page, we keep you updated on what fish we’re catching, along with reports on the quality of the water.

Factors Influencing Blackfish Behavior in Different Temperatures

Temperature, of course, is just one factor influencing blackfish activity. Other considerations include:

• Breeding Season – During spawning seasons, typically in late spring, blackfish may be less responsive to bait due to their focus on breeding activities.
• Cold Water Slowdown – In colder temperatures, blackfish become lethargic and less likely to bite, making fishing more challenging.
• Food Availability – The presence and type of prey in various temperatures can also affect blackfish feeding habits.

This is why temperature is only one part of the process. You also have to worry about everything from how hungry the blackfish are to where they prefer to be. At Marilyn Jean, we typically know where the blackfish are biting, and have many feeding spots to help when the location is not clear.

Plan Your Blackfish Fishing Trip with Confidence

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, understanding the optimal temperature for catching blackfish can greatly improve your fishing experience. Contact us for more information on blackfish fishing in New York City, and come out with us for your next fishing adventure. With our knowledge and insights, you’re set for a rewarding blackfish catch in the dynamic waters of NYC.

Still catching Porgies every day out on Sheepshead Bay. We’ve got a ton of great spots available for those that want to get out on the water.

Throughout the week, we are embarking on porgy fishing expeditions from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, on Saturdays, we offer two distinct sailing slots: one from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., and another from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

NEWS: Blackfish season is approaching and kicks off on October 15th. For those looking to catch this sought-after species, we will be sailing every day from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. But that’s not all. If you’re interested in porgy fishing but prefer a nighttime adventure, we’ve got you covered with evening trips from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

For those keeping track of seasonal trends, striped bass have started to make an appearance. We plan to switch over to nighttime striped bass expeditions soon, offering yet another dimension to your fishing experience.

Now is the perfect time to secure your spot. Tickets can be booked either through our website, MJ2Fishing.com, or by calling Capt. Tony at 646-413-1643 or Capt. Anthony at 347-952-1442. Private charter options are also available for those interested in a more personalized experience.

Don’t miss out on the best fishing near New York City; join us on one of our upcoming trips.

At Marilyn Jean Fishing, we schedule fishing times morning, afternoon, and night depending on the season. We know you have busy schedules. We want to be there at a time that is convenient for you.

But we also know that many anglers – both on our boat and those that go fishing socially –  enjoy early morning fishing because it allows them the chance to catch schools of fish before the day gets underway. Choosing when to head out to sea can be a difficult choice when organizing an ocean fishing trip. For those less experienced with the open waters, it may seem odd that fishing trips always seem to be leaving so early in the morning.

Reasons For Early Morning Fishing

There is a long and storied history of fishermen leaving home for the ocean before the sun rises. While it may be simple enough to assume this is so that anglers can get the most out of their workday, there are many other reasons that fishing is best done at the crack of dawn.

Some of these include:

• Better Fish Activity – Fish are generally more active during the cooler temperatures of the early morning, making it a prime time for catching.
• Less Fishing Pressure – Early morning often means fewer people are on the water, resulting in less competition for prime fishing spots.
• Cooler Temperatures – Especially in warmer climates, the morning offers more pleasant, cooler conditions, which can make the fishing experience more comfortable.
• Water Calmness – Winds are often less strong in the early morning, resulting in calmer waters that are easier to fish in.
• Increased Oxygen Levels – The cooler morning temperatures can increase oxygen levels in the water, making fish more active and easier to catch.
• Insect Activity – Many types of baitfish and insects are more active in the morning, which can attract larger fish to the surface.
• Better Light Conditions – The soft light of early morning can make it easier to see into the water, which can be advantageous for spotting fish.
• Less Noise and Disturbance – Fewer boats and less human activity mean a quieter, more peaceful environment, which can make fish less skittish and easier to catch.
• Personal Enjoyment and Solitude – Many people find the peace and tranquility of an early morning on the water to be a perfect way to start the day, providing a sense of solitude and connection with nature.

Fishing before, during, or right after sunrise can create many unique and memorable moments. Despite the early hours, it can be well worth the effort and extra coffee that it takes to get out on the sea. We look forward to beginning the day with you hopping aboard our finishing boat soon, regardless of whether you’re fishing early due to a busy schedule or just because you enjoy early morning fishing.