CHAPTER XIII. 
OF THE BLACK-FISH, OR TAUTOG. 
This is another of our native fishes, found only in the waters 
of New-York, Massachusetts, Rhode-Island and vicinity. 
They are not so much an object of sport as the two last 
named, but as they come early, and sometimes in great abun- 
dance, and when taken and fresh cooked are a fine table fish, 
they deserve a particular place in our extended catalogue of 
angle fishes. 
Black-Fish of New-York , Tautog of the Mohcgans — 
Tide Black-Fish , or Runners — (Mite hill) — “ The name of this 
fish is derived from the color of its back and sides, being of a 
bluish or crow black. 
“The black fish abounds in the vicinity of Long Island, 
and is a stationary inhabitant of the salt water. He never 
visits the rivers, like salmon or sturgeon; nor, oil the other 
hand, deserts his dwelling place as they do. lie is fond of 
rocks, reefs and rough bottoms. He is taken through the 
whole course of Long Island Sound, Fisher’s Island Sound, 
and in the neighborhood of Rhode-Island. The tautog was 
