Massachusetts’ 2021 marine recreational fishing regulations have been set at status quo seasons and limits for most species. This includes a recreational black sea bass season of May 18–September 8, for which the Division of Marine Fisheries recently accepted public input on two alternatives, neither of which will be adopted after consultation with the state’s Marine Fisheries Advisory Commission. DMF’s Recreational Saltwater Fishing Regulations webpage has been updated with this information.
Recreational regulations for which final decisions are still pending include: the striped bass circle hook requirement; the Gulf of Maine cod and haddock seasons; and blue crab gear restrictions. Refer to DMF’s Public Hearing Notice for more information. It is anticipated that decisions on these rules will be announced in late March. New recreational lobstering regulations were recently announced here.
Bookmark the Division’s recreational saltwater fishing regulations webpage to check for updated information when planning your next fishing trip: www.mass.gov/service-details/
