Press Release: 8/5/2026

State Expands Shore-Based Shark Fishing Restrictions to Nantucket Under Emergency Regulation

 

NANTUCKET, MA – On Friday, July 31, 2026, the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries

(DMF) filed emergency regulations under 322 CMR 6.37 to extend existing shore-based white shark

fishing restrictions to Nantucket. Previously applicable only to Cape Cod, the regulations restrict

certain fishing gear used to target white sharks from shore.

Shore-based fishing for white sharks can draw these animals closer to the shoreline, increasing the

risk of encounters with swimmers and other beachgoers. DMF is taking emergency action in

response to written requests from the Nantucket Police Department and Harbormaster following

documented white shark fishing activity on Nantucket beaches this summer and the resulting public

safety concerns. DMF is using its emergency rulemaking authority under G.L. c. 30A, § 2 to

preserve public health and safety.

The emergency regulations will remain in place for 90 days, through late October 2026, covering the

remainder of the summer season. DMF intends to allow the emergency regulations to expire and

instead develop a formal regulatory proposal this fall for consideration in 2027 that would expand

these gear restrictions statewide.

The Town of Nantucket asks all beachgoers and anglers to be aware of these restrictions and to

prioritize public safety along our shorelines this season.

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