Blackfish (Tautoga onitis)

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Biology: Blackfish, also known by the Narragansett Indian name "tautog," is found on the sea bottom from Nova Scotia to Georgia, amongst rocks, wrecks, and mussel beds. Their rubbery, slimy skin is specially adapted for moving around in these habitats. Blackfish prey on shellfish and crabs, using molar-like teeth at the backs of their throats to grind them up. They weigh an average of 1-3 pounds, but have been known to reach 25 pounds and 3 feet in length.

Sustainability status: Blackfish populations are well below target levels, but management restrictions such as closed seasons and daily limits mean that the stock is not currently experiencing overfishing.  More information is available here.

Harvest: Blackfish are caught using rod and reel, gillnets, trawl nets, and floating fish traps.

Nutritional facts: A 100-gram portion of blackfish contains 18.48 grams of protein, 0.57 grams of Omega-3, 164 calories, 9.47 grams of fat, 50 mg cholesterol, and 65 mg sodium.

Available whole or filleted, during May and October.

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