January 2026 — Montauk: Tautog at Point rockpiles, offshore groundfish. January is a deep winter month with water in the 34-40°F range — no inshore fishing; offshore cod/haddock and bluefin tuna; limited season. Here’s the full breakdown of what’s biting, where to fish, and the most productive tactics.
What’s Biting — January 2026
Primary targets this month: Cod, Tautog, Sea Bass, Bluefin Tuna.
Cod
Cod on the offshore wrecks in season — verify NOAA dates. Jigging diamond jigs (Norwegian-style 8-16 oz) or baited rigs (clams, squid) over wrecks and rocky bottom. Verify NOAA seasons/limits — strictly regulated.
Tautog
Tautog (blackfish) on the rocky bottom around Montauk Point, the offshore wrecks, and the jetties. Green crab is the gold standard bait; whole or half on a 4/0 octopus hook with minimal weight. Bites are subtle, sets must be sharp. Cold-water specialist — best Nov-May.
Sea Bass
Black sea bass on the offshore wrecks and reefs, the rocky bottom 5-15 miles out. Drop squid strips, clams, or Gulp! on a high-low rig over wrecks and reefs. The deeper wrecks (80-150 ft) hold the bigger humpbacks.
Bluefin Tuna
Bluefin tuna on the offshore canyons (Hudson, Block, Atlantis) and the inshore lumps — late spring through fall. Trolled spreader bars, ballyhoo, large stickbaits; jigging with knife jigs in 200-400 feet; chunking when anchored over bait. HMS permit required.
Water Conditions & Patterns
Water temperatures are running 34-40°F. No inshore fishing; offshore cod/haddock and bluefin tuna; limited season. Montauk Point is ALL about tide — the rips form on outgoing as Long Island Sound water flushes around the point and meets the ocean. Peak striper bite is typically the last two hours of outgoing into the first of incoming.
Check the NOAA marine forecast and tide charts before launching. Wind direction often matters more than wind speed for inshore fishing — clean water beats churned water nine times out of ten.
Tactics & Tackle for This Month
- Offshore wrecks only. Cod and haddock when seasons open; otherwise wait for spring.
- Use the down time to organize gear, plan trips, and pre-tie leader spools.
January Outlook
Cold-water patterns will continue through February, then transition begins late month into early March.
Regulations Reminder
Tautog: 15-16″ minimum, 1-4 per day depending on state and season — strictly regulated. Black Sea Bass: 12.5-13″ minimum, 10-15 per day depending on state and season. Tuna: NOAA HMS permit required. Strict size and bag limits — verify current NOAA rules. Always verify current state regulations before each trip — slots, bag limits, and seasons change.
Local Resources
Bait & Tackle: Paulie’s Tackle (Montauk, 631-668-2231); Star Island Yacht Club tackle shop; Captain Bob’s Tackle; West Lake Marina Bait.
Public Boat Ramps: Lake Montauk public ramp, West Lake Marina, Star Island Yacht Club (private), Montauk Marine Basin (private).
Charter Fishing: $700-$1,000 inshore; $1,200-$1,800 nearshore wrecks; $1,800-$3,500 offshore tuna/shark.
More Montauk Resources
Montauk Fishing Guide · Montauk Seasonal Calendar · All Montauk reports →
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