Atlantic Menhaden Fishing in Massachusetts
When atlantic menhaden are caught across Massachusetts, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Atlantic Menhaden catch through the year
Recreational catch in Massachusetts by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
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Catching atlantic menhaden in Massachusetts
Atlantic Menhaden catches in Massachusetts run hardest around Sep-Oct, with the strongest two-month windows in Sep-Oct and Jul-Aug. Anglers keep about 78% of what they catch and release the rest. All of this comes from NOAA’s recreational catch survey, so it maps the season rather than any single day.
To turn the season into a trip, line the peak window up with the daily bite. Check the Massachusetts fishing times for the solunar windows, the tide charts for moving water, and the sunrise and sunset times for first and last light.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to catch atlantic menhaden in Massachusetts?+
Catches peak around Sep-Oct (September and October). The strongest two-month windows are Sep-Oct and Jul-Aug. This is based on NOAA's 2024 recreational catch survey, so it reflects the typical season rather than a live report.
Do anglers keep or release atlantic menhaden in Massachusetts?+
Across Massachusetts, about 78% of the atlantic menhaden caught are kept and 22% are released. That works out to roughly 305K kept and 87K released in 2024.
How many atlantic menhaden are caught in Massachusetts?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 392K atlantic menhaden caught by recreational anglers in Massachusetts in 2024, making it the #10 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this atlantic menhaden data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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