Massachusetts Moves Forward with New Lobster Rules

Massachusetts will move forward with new lobster fishing regulations in 2025, increasing the minimum size of catchable lobsters in a bid to counter declining stock levels. The decision, announced by the state’s Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF), aligns with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s (ASMFC) guidelines—despite strong opposition from the lobster industry and outright rejection of the changes in neighboring New Hampshire and Maine.

Starting in January 2025, Massachusetts lobstermen north of Cape Cod will need to adhere to a new minimum lobster size of 3 5/16 inches, with a second increase set for 2027 to 3 3/8 inches. Additionally, the maximum allowable size for offshore lobster landings will shrink from 6 ¾ inches to 6 ½ inches. The DMF says the changes aim to protect the long-term sustainability of the lobster population in the Gulf of Maine and Georges Bank, which has seen a 39% decline in recruitment levels—a key indicator of the fishery’s future health.

A Regional Divide

While Massachusetts prepares for implementation, Maine and New Hampshire have rejected the new size limits, arguing they impose unnecessary hardships on an industry already burdened by regulations. New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte formally notified the ASMFC that the state will not comply, calling the changes “burdensome” and warning of negative economic impacts.

“Maine and New Hampshire’s commercial fishing industry is a proud part of our heritage,” Ayotte wrote in a letter to the commission. “To ensure the survival of an iconic and historic industry in our state and our region, we will continue with the previous minimum size.”

Maine’s Department of Marine Resources Commissioner Patrick Keliher made a similar move, announcing the state would pull its proposed size increase following strong opposition from local lobstermen. Keliher acknowledged that compliance with the ASMFC’s broader interstate fisheries plan remains a concern but said Maine would work toward alternative conservation measures.

Massachusetts Sticks to the Plan

Massachusetts officials, however, are holding firm, citing scientific evidence of declining stocks. According to the ASMFC’s latest data, the Gulf of Maine/Georges Bank lobster population has reached a critical threshold requiring conservation action.

Beyond size restrictions, other rule changes include a new v-notch possession standard, which requires lobstermen to release egg-bearing females marked with a 1/8-inch notch—a practice aimed at preserving breeding populations. Additionally, lobster trap tags will no longer include a 10% overage allowance, impacting both inshore and offshore harvesters.