Can I Keep?Smelt Regulations in Massachusetts (2026)
Recreational smelt rules in Massachusetts saltwater, as published by the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
No Limit
Bag limit
50 fish (Jan 1 - Mar 14); 50 fish (Jun 16 - Dec 31)
Season
Jan 1 - Mar 14; Jun 16 - Dec 31
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Smelt rules in Massachusetts
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- No Limit
- Bag limit
- 50 fish (Jan 1 - Mar 14); 50 fish (Jun 16 - Dec 31)
- Season
- Jan 1 - Mar 14; Jun 16 - Dec 31
- For any dates not listed in the "Season" column, the recreational fishery is closed.
Commercial rules
Show 1 commercial rule
- Where
- Hook
- Size limit
- no limit
- Bag limit
- 50 fish
- Season
- 6/16 - 3/14 (Sun - Sat)
- Open days: Sun - Sat
- DMF commercial regulations tables were updated on July 1, 2026.
Quick answers
What is the smelt size limit in Massachusetts?
No Limit.
How many smelt can I keep in Massachusetts?
50 fish (Jan 1 - Mar 14); 50 fish (Jun 16 - Dec 31).
When is smelt season in Massachusetts?
Jan 1 - Mar 14; Jun 16 - Dec 31. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
More inshore in Massachusetts
All Massachusetts saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. Most anglers need a Massachusetts saltwater license or registry: get one here.