Fishing Regulations in Massachusetts
Size limits, bag limits, and seasons by species in Massachusetts.
In Massachusetts, the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife sets the freshwater rules while the coast, home to Cape Cod's famous striped bass and bluefish, follows its own seasons and limits. Regulations differ between inland trout and bass waters and the saltwater fishery, so confirm the rules for your spot before you keep a fish.
85 species with limits13 special regulation bodies of water
Notable waters
Catch-and-Release AreasHousatonic River (catch-and-release sections)Housatonic River (mainstem)Major RiversNissitissit River (NH border to Prescott Street Bridge)South Pond (Quacumquasit)Swift River (Winsor Dam to Cady Lane)Southern New England
Statewide
Year-round
Min size12"Daily bag5
Aggregate: 5 black bass total (Largemouth + Smallmouth combined)
Always confirm with the official state agency before keeping a fish. Regulations can change and local exceptions may apply.
Check Massachusetts Regulations on the App
Take size limits, bag limits, and seasons for every species with you on the water. CatchVault is on iOS, with Android on the way.