The Marine and Coastal Resources Department, located at 34 Washington Street is responsible for issuing all commercial and non-commercial permits for shell fishing. The resident/property owner (proof required) permit is $25 and the non-resident permit is $100. Both are for individuals over 14 years old.
Please note the state of Massachusetts does require fishing licenses for saltwater fishing. Go to www.mass.gov for more information.
Mussels: Open Season. No permit required.
Striped Bass: A Saltwater Fishing permit is required for recreation fishermen; minimum length is 28 inches. 2 fish per person.
Bluefish: Open Season. A Saltwater Fishing permit is required for recreation fishermen. Good fishing from boats and shore from May – November.
Bay Scallops: Closed Season: April 1 – October 1; Recreational Season: (Wednesday – Sunday only) October 1 – March 31. Commercial Season: (Monday – Friday) November 1 – March 31. Permit Required. Recreational limit is one bushel per week. Scallops must have a well-defined raised growth ring.
Eels: Open Season. Permit required. Eels are found in harbors and creeks during the spring and fall.
Blue Claw Crab: Open Season. No permit required unless using traps. Return egg-bearing females. 4 1/8 inch shell width spine to spine. 50 crabs a day. Season closed January 1 – April 30.
Oysters: Closed Season: May 1 – September 1. Recreational Season: September 1 – April 30. Permit required. Limit one half-bushel per week. Oysters must be 3 inches in size.
Quahogs: Open Season. Permit required. Limited is one-half bushel per week. Quahog shell must be 1 inch thick at the hinge.
Steamers: Closed Season: June 15 – September 15. Recreational Season: (Sundays only) September 15 – June 14. Permit required. Limit is one 10 quart pail per week. Steamer shell must be 2 inches in size.