Can I Keep?Tilefish: Blueline Regulations in Massachusetts (2026)
Recreational tilefish: blueline rules in Massachusetts saltwater, as published by the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
None
Bag limit
3 fish per person on private vessels 5 fish per person on uninspected…
Season
May 15-Nov 14
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Tilefish: Blueline rules in Massachusetts
- Where
- Federal waters (EEZ) (ocean)
- Size limit
- None
- Bag limit
- 3 fish per person on private vessels 5 fish per person on uninspected for-hire vessels 7 fish per person on USCG-inspected for-hire vessels
- Season
- May 15-Nov 14
- Federal (EEZ) regulation published by NOAA Fisheries GARFO; Massachusetts state-waters rules may differ.
- From the Virginia/North Carolina border north, you must have a recreational tilefish permit and report any trip you target or catch tilefish.
Quick answers
What is the tilefish: blueline size limit in Massachusetts?
None.
How many tilefish: blueline can I keep in Massachusetts?
3 fish per person on private vessels 5 fish per person on uninspected for-hire vessels 7 fish per person on USCG-inspected for-hire vessels.
When is tilefish: blueline season in Massachusetts?
May 15-Nov 14. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
More groundfish & flatfish in Massachusetts
- American Plaice
- Atlantic Cod
- Cod
- Cusk
- Dab (plaice)
- Grey Sole
- Haddock
- Hake/Whiting
- Halibut
- Monkfish
- Ocean Pout
- Pollock
- Redfish
- Summer Flounder
- 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.