Resources

Protecting Our Waters

Catch and release is strongly encouraged to support and sustain our local fishery.

Anglers must comply with all federal and state regulations. Please see the links below to ensure you are prepared to participate.

• Recreational Saltwater License

• Responsible Angler Techniques

• Recreational Saltwater Fishing Regulation

Measuring Your Catch

For Massachusetts marine waters, the minimum size for fish (exceptions listed below) is the greatest straight line length (not curved over the body) from the anterior tip of the jaw or snout (mouth closed) to the farthest extremity of the tail. Fish should be firmly grasped with both hands for proper measuring. Care should be taken so that the head firmly contacts the zero mark on rulers and tapes simultaneously with the tail extremity. For fish with forked tails, the upper and lower fork may be squeezed together to measure the tail extremity.

Striped Bass are measured in total length, which is the greatest straight line from the anterior most tip of the jaw or snout to the farthest extremity of the tail with the forks squeezed together. 

Source information provided by Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries