Lobstering rules in MA

[estelt]

This is going to be my first season hitting the lobsters in MA. Going through the rule book I'm trying to figure out if lobster snares, ticklers or the like are legal. All I can find is one section that says "Spearing, dipping, or dragging for lobsters is prohibited." Nothing about snaring or using a stick to coax them out. The Division of Marine Fisheries just gave me a quick answer which I really didn't trust. Any suggestions?

 

[rubberduck]

Tickle sicks are fine to try to coax them out but a snare or any other type of device is illegal. At least that's what I have been told.

Good luck and hapy bug hunting.

 

[ronbeau]

This is going to be my first season hitting the lobsters in MA. Going through the rule book I'm trying to figure out if lobster snares, ticklers or the like are legal. All I can find is one section that says "Spearing, dipping, or dragging for lobsters is prohibited." Nothing about snaring or using a stick to coax them out. The Division of Marine Fisheries just gave me a quick answer which I really didn't trust. Any suggestions?

Try calling the Massachusetts Environmental Police and them the question. They should know since they are the guys that will nail you if its a problem.

 

[Hawkeyegregg]

Tickle stick fine, snare a no no.

 

[estelt]

Thanks for the info. That's what I was beginning to gather. Tickle sticks yes, Snares no. Appreciate!