Massachusetts state waters, out to 3 miles
Landing or possession unlawful (322 CMR 6.16); state and federally endangered - release immediately.
MA DMF 2026 · checked · likely · the official rulebook is the final word
How to tell it
Rows of bony armor scutes, a shark-like tail, and a vacuum-hose snout with barbels — a dinosaur. More on the Atlantic sturgeon page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Questions anglers ask2
Can you keep Atlantic sturgeon in Massachusetts?
No. Harvest is prohibited in Massachusetts. Release it in the water where you can. Landing or possession unlawful (322 CMR 6.16); state and federally endangered - release immediately.
How current is this Massachusetts Atlantic sturgeon rule?
Source: MA DMF 2026, last checked Sep 7, 2026. A watchman re-reads the agency's pages nightly. Rules change mid-season by proclamation; the official rulebook is the final word.
In the appPoint the camera at an Atlantic sturgeon in Massachusetts and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.
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