Massachusetts state waters, out to 3 miles
Curved-fork-length measure; applies in state waters only.
MA DMF 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
Often mistaken for
Atlantic bonitoStripes are straighter and reach lower; has teeth. Tell them apart
King mackerelSlimmer, dipping lateral line. Tell them apartNot listed by Massachusetts: the default applies (No limit, no bag limit).
Keep the wrong fish and its rule applies.
Massachusetts state record
MA DMF Saltwater Game Fish Records · checked 2026-09-04
How to tell it
Wavy, worm-like markings above the lateral line only; spotless silver below; football body. More on the false albacore page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
False albacore in other states1 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask5
What is the size limit for false albacore in Massachusetts?
16" min (curved fork length). Measured as curved fork length: snout to the fork of the tail, along the curve of the body.
How many false albacore can you keep in Massachusetts?
5 fish combined with Atlantic bonito. Counts toward the Bonito & false albacore (combined) aggregate.
When is false albacore season in Massachusetts?
Open year-round.
What is the Massachusetts record false albacore?
19 lb 5 oz, Edgartown (1990).
How current is this Massachusetts false albacore 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.
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