greenfrog Loc: Central NJ

Connecticut angler catches massive “Taugzilla” in Thames River
By Olivia Kalentek

Conn. (WFSB) - There’s a new catch and release record for blackfish in Connecticut.

Connecticut angler Aiden Cole reeled in the fish of a lifetime when he caught and released a 35-inch 25.76-pound Tautog (aka Taugzilla).

The fish was immediately weighed and measured after it was caught aboard the Melissa Ann in the Thames River.

Tautog range from Nova Scotia to Georgia but are most common between Cape Cod and Chesapeake Bay. They migrate based off water temperature.

“In spring, as the water temperature approaches 48°F, adult tautog migrate closer to shore to spawn, where they remain through the summer until water temperatures drop below 52°F in the fall,” said Connecticut Fish and Wildlife experts.

Tautog is the first available to anglers in the spring and the last one still available in the fall. Experts say fall is the best time to fish for this species of fish.

Tautog can live to 35-40 years old.
“Coveted among marine anglers, Tautog are hard fighting, tough on tackle, and excellent on the table.”
Link: https://www.wfsb.com/2023/10/25/connecticut-angler-catches-massive-taugzilla-thames-river/

Angler Aiden Cole reeled in the fish of a lifetime when he caught a massive Tautog(Connecticut Fish and Wildlife)

Fredfish Loc: Prospect CT.

I saw that in this week's Fishermen Frog. Awesome fish! They also have the video of him releasing the fish. Thanks for sharing.

Grizzly 17 Loc: South central Pa

Nice greenfrog.

The surprises that come with the joy of fishing 😊👍🎣

NJ219bands Loc: New Jersey

Wow 😮

kandydisbar Loc: West Orange, NJ

Wow, that's one big fish!!

Fredfish Loc: Prospect CT.

In this week's report there was also a 13+ pounder, caught from shore!!!

greenfrog Loc: Central NJ

You got good blackfishing in Connecticut for sure.

Fredfish Loc: Prospect CT.

That we do Frog. Lots of breakwaters, and rocky shoreline.

Theegoat Loc: Stonington CT

Hey All,
I’m pretty sure that is the World record as well.
Ron 😎✌️

Fredfish Loc: Prospect CT.

The CT state record is 26lb 9.6oz, Ron.The IGFA world record is 28lbs 13oz, caught in Maryland.

Theegoat Loc: Stonington CT

You are right Fred. Westerfield’s catch is the world record.
I saw it listed as 34”.
The recent catch in CT said 35” on one article and 36” on another but weighed 25.78lbs.
My bad.
Thanks for pointing that out!
BTW. Jen Zuppe is from Ct as well.
Ron✌️

Fredfish Loc: Prospect CT.

Yeah, normally C&R records are only measured, and released from the boat. Nobody has a certified scale on board their boat. Luckily, Blackfish are like Catfish, very hearty and can survive short periods being out of the water. I watched the release video, and the fish took off looking healthy.