Massachusetts regulations
Black Sea Bass Regulations in Massachusetts 2026
Massachusetts black sea bass season runs May 18 – Sep 4 in 2026. Statewide rules: 10 fish/day, 16.5″ min size. Sourced from DFW / DMF.
Rules (6)
Massachusetts statewideIn season
- Season opens
- May 18
- Season closes
- Sep 4
- Daily bag
- 10 fish/day
- Min size
- 16.5"
for-hire vessels
Whole CoastIn season
- Season opens
- Apr 15
- Season closes
- Oct 31
Season: Mid April-October
Other Massachusetts fish regulations
Other regulated species in Massachusetts with current rule pages — same DFW / DMF source, same verification cadence.
- Trout (Brook, Brown, Rainbow)24 rules
- Stripers (Striped Bass)13 rules
- Tog (Tautog / Blackfish)12 rules
- Scup (Porgy)10 rules
- Fluke (Summer Flounder)9 rules
- Lake Trout8 rules
- White Perch8 rules
- Northern Pike4 rules
- Bluefish3 rules
- Largemouth Bass3 rules
- Bluegill (Sunfish)2 rules
- Yellow Perch2 rules
Also known as
Black Sea Bass is also called sea bass. Anglers in different regions use different names for the same fish, and the rules on this page apply to all of them in Massachusetts.
Frequently asked questions
When is Black Sea Bass season in Massachusetts?
Black Sea Bass season in Massachusetts runs from Apr 15 to Oct 31 per DFW / DMF.
What is the size limit for Black Sea Bass in Massachusetts?
Minimum size for Black Sea Bass in Massachusetts is 16.5 inches, per DFW / DMF. Slot limits or maximum sizes may apply in some zones.
What is the daily bag limit for Black Sea Bass in Massachusetts?
Daily bag limit for Black Sea Bass in Massachusetts is 10 fish/day, per DFW / DMF.
Official sources cited
Reference only. Regulations change frequently, often mid-season. Always verify with DFW / DMF before keeping a catch.