December 17, 2024! It was another splendid day for fishing, and I couldn’t wait to see what we would catch. With the winter chill in the air, the excitement was palpable as we set out for another adventure.
Once we arrived at our first fishing spot, we quickly got our lines in the water. The strategy was to use knocker rigs baited with shrimp, a tried-and-true method perfect for enticing our target species. Almost immediately, we started to feel the bites, and it wasn’t long before we had our first black drum on the line.
The sheepshead, with their striking stripes and tenacious fight, provided a good challenge for our anglers, and it was a pleasure to see everyone getting in on the action. The playful banter and friendly competition made the atmosphere aboard the boat even more enjoyable.
And then, of course, there were the tautog! These robust fish are known for their strong pulls and are always a welcomed addition to the catch. Our guests were thrilled to land a few tautog, and I could tell they appreciated the challenge of reeling them.
With our cooler filling up with black drum, sheepshead, and tautog, I couldn’t help but think about how delicious these catches would be when prepared. For those who are looking for a simple yet delicious way to cook tautog, I highly recommend trying a Parmesan crusting. It’s an easy recipe that brings out the best flavors of the fish. Here’s how you can do it:
Parmesan-Crusted Tautog, black drum, or sheepshead Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tautog fillets
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the tautog fillets with melted butter and olive oil, then press the Parmesan mixture onto the top of the fillets.
4. Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
6. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh finish.
It’s a simple yet elegant dish that pairs perfectly with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Trust me; it’s a recipe that will impress your family and friends!
Tight lines and see you soon!
Southern Voyage Fishing Charters
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