Massachusetts black sea bass retention is closed after the Oct. 14 season date

Massachusetts recreational black sea bass is off the keeper list. The Division of Marine Fisheries recreational table, which the page says was last updated April 28, 2026, lists the species at a 16-inch minimum, four fish from May 16 through Aug. 31, and two fish from Sept. 1 through Oct. 14. No later open dates appear on that row.

The same page’s general note says that for any dates not listed in the season column, the recreational fishery is closed, and that during a closed season retention, possession, and landing are prohibited and the catch must be released. DMF calls the table an unofficial copy and says the official text is 322 CMR at the Secretary of State. The black sea bass footnote says fish are measured from the tip of the snout, mouth closed, to the farthest point of the tail, not counting the tail filament. They may be filleted but not skinned at sea, and no more than two fillets per allowed fish may be kept.

Tautog is a different line on the same table. That bag change is already on the desk and is not this closure. Western Gulf of Maine cod is also still listed as open from Sept. 1 through Oct. 31, one fish at 23 inches, in state waters. Confirm the live DMF table before a trip; the page says the rules can move.

This is a The Gillnet news desk summary, not a reprint.

Source: Mass.gov — Recreational saltwater fishing regulations (Division of Marine Fisheries table, last updated April 28, 2026).