Maine state waters, out to 3 miles
White shark is on the Chapter 50 coastal sharks list; take prohibited in Maine territorial waters and federally.
ME DMR 2026 · checked · the official rulebook is the final word
Often mistaken for
Shortfin makoSlimmer, with smooth-edged dagger teeth. Tell them apartKeep the wrong fish and its rule applies.
How to tell it
Conical snout, black eye, torpedo bulk; serrated triangular teeth; stark white underside. More on the great white shark page: every state’s rule, the records, and how anglers catch it.
Questions anglers ask2
Can you keep great white shark in Maine?
No. Harvest is prohibited in Maine. Release it in the water where you can. White shark is on the Chapter 50 coastal sharks list; take prohibited in Maine territorial waters and federally.
How current is this Maine great white shark rule?
Source: ME DMR 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 great white shark in Maine and this rule is on the screen before you take the picture. No signal needed.
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