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DMF’s Protected Species Program has recently launched a passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) network in Massachusetts state waters and adjacent federal waters. The primary goal of the monitoring effort is to improve our understanding of the spatial and temporal presence of right whales in Massachusetts coastal waters and inform current and future conservation measures to protect them.
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Building Capacity for Large-Scale, Seed-Based Eelgrass Restoration in Massachusetts
Despite extensive efforts to restore eelgrass in Massachusetts, they have historically not resulted in self-sustaining, resilient eelgrass beds. Seed-based restoration is a promising solution to scale-up effort with higher success. DMF is collaborating with research organizations to explore this more deeply.
For decades, Massachusetts anglers have competed to catch the largest saltwater fish in Massachusetts, dating back to the historic Governor’s Cup. Now, in 2025, DMF’s Recreational Fisheries Program is inviting anglers to celebrate this long tradition as they embark on a new chapter of the Derby: The Commissioner’s Cup. With new rules, easier ways to enter, and a new showcase trophy, the reimagined derby should ignite a renewed spirit of competition and excitement for the 2025 season.
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The Massachusetts Commercial Fisheries Commission (CFC) met for the first time on April 8, 2025. The CFC was established by the Massachusetts legislature in 2022. During the first meeting, leadership aimed to effectively concentrate the scope and goals of this new public body, and to develop strategies for implementation through feedback from Commission members.
On June 14, DMF invited the public to their first-ever Marine Quest, a free, educational outdoor event for children and families at the Cat Cove Marine Laboratory in Salem. The festival was an opportunity for the Division to showcase everything they do—from innovative research and managing sustainable fisheries to protecting endangered marine species and habitat restoration. |
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After nearly 100 years in operation and more than 60 years under DMF ownership, the Newburyport Shellfish Depuration Plant has closed due to severe erosion. Although there is uncertainty surrounding the future of contaminated shellfish harvest in Massachusetts, there is hope for these fisheries. |
Below find the changes made to DMF fishing rules by regulation, emergency action, and in-season adjustment from January 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025.
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Celebrating Recreational
Saltwater Fishing in
Massachusetts
This spring, DMF's Recreational Fisheries Program collaborated with talented illustrator Jay Talbot to re-envision our “FishMA” sticker. New stickers feature a variety of species, including striped bass, black sea bass, bluefin tuna, mackerel, fluke, haddock, and tautog!
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Promising Signs for Horseshoe Crab in Massachusetts
Monitoring programs for horseshoe crabs in Massachusetts are showing promising signs of increasing abundance. 90% of Massachusetts spawning beach surveys show an increasing trend over the last decade. Stock assessments show increases in abundance across the state.
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A Few Ways You Can Help Striped Bass This Summer
As another season of striped bass fishing gets underway in Massachusetts, DMF is continuing our work to make the fishery as enjoyable, and sustainable, as possible through new research and resources.
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Diadromous Fish Run Updates
A new season means several new updates, including a river herring counting workshop, successful fish passage restoration projects, and herring run counts.
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North Atlantic right whales return each year to feed in Cape Cod Bay and coastal Massachusetts waters in the early winter through late spring. New monitoring efforts allow DMF and collaborating researchers to better understand large whale behavior and movement. |
DMF has adopted several new rules affecting shore-based shark fishing in Massachusetts for this coming season. These consider gear type, bait, location, and timing of fishing activity.
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The DMF Saltwater Angler Education Program was awarded the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) Inclusive and Accessible Event grant! This has allowed the program to purchase new rods and tackle for new anglers to use during angler education fishing clinics. |
Supporting Local Seafood Through Outreach and Collaboration
DMF’s Seafood Marketing Program aims to increase consumer demand and preference for local seafood products and support local fisheries through education and awareness. Part of the program’s role is to attend local seafood, food, and outreach shows and conferences to share resources on local seafood, learn from industry members, and grow DMF’s network of fishermen, seafood dealers, restaurants, educators, and more!
Dish on Fish: Pan-Seared Sole (Flounder) with Cherry Tomato and Caper-Shallot Toppers
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Flaky, delicate flounder fillets meet two vibrant toppings in this quick, easy, and versatile dinner recipe. One sauce is sweet and bright with blistered cherry tomatoes, while the other is briny and rich with shallots, capers, and white wine. Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavor! |
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