The State Marine Fisheries Council met Thursday 1/5 to vote on a plan to reduce the annual harvest of Blackfish (Tautog) after Federal Regulators ordered New Jersey officials for a reduction in the recreational harvest.

The Proposed minimum size limit will rise to 15 inches all year long, up from the minimum size limit of 14 inches. Anglers will also be taking fewer fish home.

( The Proposed ) NJ Blackfish / Tog Regulations are as Follows.

Jan. 1 - Feb. 28 - 15 inches - 4 fish

March - CLOSED

April - 15 inches - 4 fish

May 1 - July 26 CLOSED

July 27 - Aug. 30 - 15 inches - 1 fish

Sept. 1 - Oct. 17 - CLOSED

Oct. 18 - Nov. 15 - 15 inches 1 fish

Nov. 16 - Dec. 31 - 15 inches 4 fish