Can I Keep?Summer Flounder Regulations in Massachusetts (2026)
Recreational summer flounder rules in Massachusetts saltwater, as published by the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Limits differ by area — the summary below is the first published rule; see every rule underneath.
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Summer Flounder rules in Massachusetts
- Where
- Vessel Based
- Size limit
- Min: 17.5"
- Bag limit
- 5 fish
- Season
- May 24 - Sep 23
- For any dates not listed in the "Season" column, the recreational fishery is closed.
- Where
- Shore Based
- Size limit
- Min: 16.5"
- Bag limit
- 5-fish
- Season
- May 24 - Sep 23
- For any dates not listed in the "Season" column, the recreational fishery is closed.
Quick answers
What is the summer flounder size limit in Massachusetts?
Min: 17.5" (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).
How many summer flounder can I keep in Massachusetts?
5 fish (for the first listed area; other areas may differ — see above).
When is summer flounder season in Massachusetts?
May 24 - Sep 23. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
Compare Summer Flounder limits in other states →
More groundfish & flatfish in Massachusetts
- American Plaice
- Atlantic Cod
- Cod
- Cusk
- Dab (plaice)
- Grey Sole
- Haddock
- Hake/Whiting
- Halibut
- Monkfish
- Ocean Pout
- Pollock
- Redfish
- Tilefish: Blueline
- Tilefish: Golden
- Windowpane Flounder
- Winter Flounder
- Witch Flounder
All Massachusetts saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. Most anglers need a Massachusetts saltwater license or registry: get one here.