This page includes a brief explanation of fish tagging, a how-to section, and fish tagging resources. An array of saltwater fish tagging programs exist throughout the region. Saltwater fish are tagged for scientific research and other purposes.

How To Tag Fish

This tutorial explains the process of tagging saltwater fish with Captain Monty Hawkins of the headboat Morningstar.

Captain Monty Hawkins tags tautog.

A tag goes in a black sea bass.

The tag is tied and trimmed before release.

For more information about tagging fish, visit the Morningstar Fishing website.

Tagging Resources

American Littoral Society– fish tagging programs

NOAA Apex Predators Program – shark tagging

Virginia Game Fish Tagging Program

North Carolina Adult or Juvenile Red Drum Tagging Program
P.O. Box 769
Morehead City, NC 28557
1-800-682-2632

South Carolina DNR Adult Red Drum Tagging Program
PO Box 12559
Charleston, SC 29422-2559
1-888-TAGS-4-SC

Georgia Cooperative Angler Tagging Program
One Conservation Way, Suite 300
Brunswick, Georgia 31520
912-264-7218

Related Information

Saltwater Fishing

Fishing Regulations

Tackle, Gear, and Equipment