This species inhabits hard substrate habitats in inshore waters at depths from 1 to 75 m (5 to 245 ft).

[2] Barlett (1848) wrote, "[Tautaug] is a Native American word, and may be found in Roger Williams' Key to the Indian Language."

Their skin also has a rubbery quality with a heavy slime covering, which helps to protect them when swimming among rocks.

Goode (1884) said, "The tautog has always been a favorite table fish, especially in New York, its flesh being white, dry, and of a delicate flavor.

Rigs with minimal beads, swivels, and hooks should be used to prevent entanglement with the rocks, reefs, or wrecks that tautog frequent.

At present, the Blue Ocean Institute recommends that consumers avoid eating this fish because the populations are at low levels that are not considered sustainable.