Can I Keep?Black Sea Bass Regulations in New York (2026)
Recreational black sea bass rules in New York saltwater, as published by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Division of Marine Resources. Last checked November 7, 2026.
Size limit
16"
Bag limit
3 6
Season
May 16 - Aug 31 Sept 1 - Dec 31
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Black Sea Bass rules in New York
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- 16"
- Bag limit
- 3 6
- Possession
- 3 6
- Season
- May 16 - Aug 31 Sept 1 - Dec 31
- Black sea bass are measured from the tip of the snout (or jaw), with the mouth closed, to the farthest extremity of the tail, not including the tail filament.
- Regulations were last changed on May 12, 2026 and are subject to change at any time.
Commercial rules
Show 1 commercial rule
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- 11" TL
- Bag limit
- Trip limit: See Quota Managed Species . A trip limit set by DEC to be consistent with the requirements of the Interstate Fishery Management Plan for black sea bass. DEC may authorize up to two commercial license holders per vessel to possess the black sea bass trip limit on any one calendar day.
- Season
- See Quota Managed Species
- Quota managed species table: Open** — trip limit 800 lbs. daily (effective 9/21/26); Weekly Program: Open — trip limit 2,500 lbs. weekly (effective 10/26/26)
Quick answers
What is the black sea bass size limit in New York?
16".
How many black sea bass can I keep in New York?
3 6.
When is black sea bass season in New York?
May 16 - Aug 31 Sept 1 - Dec 31. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
Compare Black Sea Bass limits in other states →
More reef fish in New York
All New York saltwater fishing regulations →
Source: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Division of Marine Resources. Most anglers need a New York saltwater license or registry: get one here.