Maryland state waters, out to 3 miles
MD Atlantic table lists 'grouper species' without enumerating; guide says see detailed regulations.
MD DNR 2026 · checked · likely · the official rulebook is the final word
Often mistaken for
Black grouperRectangular dark blotches, brassy spots. Tell them apartKeep the wrong fish and its rule applies.
How to tell it
Box-shaped worm markings in gray marble; darker fins with white edge on the anal. More on the gag grouper page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Gag grouper in other states11 rulebooks
Questions anglers ask4
What is the size limit for gag grouper in Maryland?
No size limit.
How many gag grouper can you keep in Maryland?
1 (all groupers combined). Counts toward the Grouper species (1 combined) aggregate.
When is gag grouper season in Maryland?
Open year-round.
How current is this Maryland gag grouper rule?
Source: MD DNR 2026, last checked Sep 20, 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 a gag grouper in Maryland and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.
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