Montauk Fish Species
Fish Season Calendar
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
H2: Montauk Fishing Seasons – Best Times to Catch Inshore & Offshore Fish
Montauk, NY, is a year-round fishing hotspot, with each season bringing a new wave of inshore and offshore fish species. Spring kicks off with striped bass, fluke, and weakfish making their way into the bays and inlets, while offshore waters begin warming up for early bluefin tuna and mako shark action. As summer arrives, Montauk fishing charters target peak runs of striped bass, fluke, black sea bass, and porgies inshore, while offshore anglers chase yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, and white marlin in deeper waters.
H3: Seasonal Fishing in Montauk – What to Expect Year-Round
Fall is prime time for striped bass fishing in Montauk, with trophy-sized fish moving along the coast as they migrate south. False albacore (albies), black sea bass, and tautog (blackfish) thrive inshore, while offshore waters remain active with bigeye tuna, swordfish, and the last runs of mahi-mahi before temperatures drop. Winter fishing slows down, but hardy anglers can still find cod, pollock, and ling in deeper waters.
Planning a trip around Montauk’s fishing seasons ensures the best opportunities to land your target species. Whether you're casting for inshore favorites like fluke and bluefish in the summer or heading offshore for trophy tuna and marlin, knowing when and where to fish is key. With expert guidance from MarCeeJay Sport Fishing, you'll be in the right place at the right time for a successful and memorable fishing adventure in Montauk!
Questions About Montauk Fish Species & Fishing with MarCeeJay Sport Fishing
1. What are the best fish species to catch in Montauk, NY?
Montauk is home to a variety of sought-after species, including striped bass, bluefish, fluke, black sea bass, and tautog inshore, while offshore waters are prime for bluefin tuna, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and white marlin. At MarCeeJay Sport Fishing, we tailor each trip to target the most active fish of the season, ensuring a productive day on the water.
2. When is the best time to catch striped bass in Montauk?
The striped bass season in Montauk runs from May through November, with peak fishing from late spring into the fall migration. Captain John knows all the best locations and techniques to hook trophy-sized stripers, whether fishing at Montauk Point, in the rips, or along the beaches.
3. What offshore fish can I catch during the summer in Montauk?
Summer offshore fishing in Montauk offers yellowfin tuna, bluefin tuna, mahi-mahi, white marlin, and even swordfish. MarCeeJay Sport Fishing runs deep-sea fishing charters to prime locations like the canyons and offshore wrecks, maximizing your chances of landing a big one.
4. Can I catch fluke and black sea bass on the same trip?
Yes! Fluke and black sea bass fishing overlap during the warmer months, making them great targets for a combination trip. MarCeeJay Sport Fishing specializes in bottom fishing for these delicious and hard-fighting species, ensuring plenty of action and a great catch to take home.
5. Are there any fishing restrictions or size limits in Montauk?
Yes, New York state regulations apply to size limits, bag limits, and fishing seasons for species like striped bass, fluke, black sea bass, and tuna. Captain John stays up to date with all current regulations to ensure a legal and sustainable fishing experience on every charter.