We are implementing new management measures for the Georges Bank cod recreational fishery. These changes take effect on May 1, 2018. Recreational management measures for Gulf of Maine cod and haddock will remain the same as 2017 measures.
Georges Bank Cod
We are increasing the minimum size of Georges Bank cod from 22 to 23 inches. We are also implementing a 10-fish, per person, per day, possession limit for the for-hire fishery. The 10-fish possession limit for private recreational anglers will remain in place.
Fishing Year 2018 Recreational Fishing Measures for Georges Bank Cod
Year |
Bag Limit |
Size Limit |
Open Season |
2018 |
10 |
23 inches |
All Year |
Bag limits are per person per day and size limits are minimum total length.
Gulf of Maine Cod and Haddock
We are maintaining status quo (2017) management measures for Gulf of Maine cod and haddock.
Fishing Year 2018 Recreational Fishing Measures for Gulf of Maine cod and haddock
Year |
Gulf of Maine Haddock |
Gulf of Maine Cod |
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Bag |
Size |
Open |
Bag |
Size |
Open |
Limit |
Limit |
Season |
Limit |
Limit |
Season |
2018 |
12 |
17 inches |
May 1 – September 16 November 1 – February 28 and April 15 – April 30 |
Gulf of Maine Cod Possession Prohibited
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Bag limits are per person per day and size limits are minimum total length.
Additional information on the fishing year 2018 recreational measures can be found at our Recreational page.
Cod Spawning Protection Areas
Recreational vessels remain subject to the Whaleback Cod Spawning Protection Area. Recreational vessels are also now subject to the Winter Massachusetts Bay Spawning Protection Area.
Gulf of Maine Cod Spawning Protection Areas
Gulf of Maine Cod Spawning Area (Whaleback) |
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Gear Restrictions Gulf of Maine (Whaleback) Cod Spawning Protection Area: From April 1 through June 30 of each year, all recreational vessels, including private recreational and charter/party vessels, may only use pelagic hook-and-line gear, as defined below, when fishing in the Whaleback Cod Spawning Protection Area. |
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Winter Massachusetts Bay Spawning Protection Area: From November 1 through January 31 of each year, all recreational vessels, including private recreational and charter/party vessels, may only use pelagic hook-and-line gear, as defined below, when fishing in the Winter Massachusetts Bay Spawning Protection Area. |
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Pelagic hook-and-line gear is defined as handline or rod and reel gear that is designed to fish for, or that is being used to fish for, pelagic species. No portion of this gear may be operated in contact with the bottom at any time.
Possession Restrictions
Any vessel fishing in the Gulf of Maine Whaleback Cod Spawning Protection Area, or the Winter Massachusetts Bay Spawning Protection Area, including pelagic hook-and-line gear by recreational vessels, is prohibited from possessing or retaining regulated species or ocean pout from April 1 through June 30 of each year.
Transiting
Recreational vessels are allowed to transit the Gulf of Maine Cod Spawning Protection Area, and Winter Massachusetts Bay Spawning Protection Area provided all gear is stowed in accordance with the regulations.