Can I Keep?Horseshoe crabs Regulations in New York (2026)
Recreational horseshoe crabs 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
No size limit
Bag limit
5
Season
All year
Can I keep it today? Check your harbor & date
Recreational Horseshoe crabs rules in New York
- Where
- Statewide
- Size limit
- No size limit
- Bag limit
- 5
- Season
- All year
- State law limits recreational take to no more than 50 crabs of any single species or combination of species may be harvested per person per day. At no time may a person be in possession of more than the daily recreational limit of five horseshoe crabs.
- Regulations were last changed on May 11, 2022 and are subject to change at any time.
Quick answers
What is the horseshoe crabs size limit in New York?
No size limit.
How many horseshoe crabs can I keep in New York?
5.
When is horseshoe crabs season in New York?
All year. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.
More crabs, lobster & shrimp 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.