Massachusetts Bag Limits
Complete daily limits, possession limits, and season limits for hunting and fishing in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts Bag Limits
Complete guide to daily limits, possession limits, season limits, and size restrictions for hunting and fishing in Massachusetts. Updated for the current season.
Big Game
2 species
Game Birds
7 species
Fish Species
4 species
Total Species
15
Big Game
2 species in Massachusetts
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Deer | 2 | - | Per permit type | Antlerless permits available |
| Black Bear | 1 | - | 1 per year | Western MA only |
Upland Birds
3 species in Massachusetts
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Turkey | 1 | - | 2 per year | Bearded birds; 1 per season |
| Pheasant | 2 | 4 | - | Stocked on state lands |
| Grouse | 3 | 6 | - | - |
Fish
4 species in Massachusetts
| Species | Daily | Possession | Season | Size Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Largemouth Bass | 5 | - | - | 12" minimum | - |
| Smallmouth Bass | 5 | - | - | 12" minimum | - |
| Trout | 3 | - | - | - | Catch-and-release on designated waters |
| Striped Bass | 1 | - | - | 28" minimum or slot | - |
Massachusetts Special Notes
Massachusetts has strict coastal fishing regulations. Verify current size limits before trips.
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Massachusetts Regulations Overview
State wildlife agency and regulations information
- Species Covered
- 15 species with regulations
- Big Game Species
-
- White-tailed Deer
- Black Bear
- Wildlife Agency
- Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
This information is for reference only. Always verify regulations with your state wildlife agency before hunting or fishing.
Last verified: January 2026
Massachusetts Bag Limits FAQ
Common questions about harvest limits in Massachusetts
What is the deer bag limit in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the daily deer limit is 2 with a season limit of Per permit type. Antlerless permits available
What is the difference between daily and possession limits?
Daily limit is the maximum you can harvest in one day. Possession limit is the maximum you can have at any time, typically 2-3 times the daily limit. In Massachusetts, possession limits help ensure hunters don't stockpile beyond reasonable personal use.
What are the fishing limits in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts fishing limits include: Largemouth Bass: 5/day (12" minimum); Smallmouth Bass: 5/day (12" minimum); Trout: 3/day; Striped Bass: 1/day (28" minimum or slot). Water-specific regulations may override general limits.
Where can I find official Massachusetts bag limits?
For official and current bag limits, check your Massachusetts wildlife agency website. Regulations can change annually, and specific areas may have different rules. Always carry current regulations while hunting.
Are there special regulations I should know about in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts has strict coastal fishing regulations. Verify current size limits before trips.
Other States
View bag limits for more states
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