SlotGaugeCheck a catchShortfin Mako Shark regulations in Georgia
Sharks · Saltwater · 2026 season
Shortfin Mako Shark size limit, season and daily limit
| Where | Season | Size limit | Daily limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| GA state waters (to 3 nm) | Open year-round | 83 inch minimum | 1 per angler or boat, whichever is less — only when the federal shortfin mako retention quota is open |
| Federal waters (3–200 nm) | Open year-round | 83 inch minimum | Federal HMS rules apply — retention only when NOAA opens the quota |
Notes
- Shortfin mako can only be kept when NOAA has the federal retention quota open — assume it is closed unless you have confirmed on the NOAA HMS site.
- Minimum 83 inches fork length; one shark per angler or boat, whichever is less.
- Longfin mako looks similar and is PROHIBITED — if in doubt, release.
Exact Georgia DNR Coastal Resources Division wording
- Season
- When Federal Quota is Available.
- Size
- 83 inch fork length
- Limit
- 1 per angler or boat, whichever is less
- GA state waters (to 3 nm) — as printed
- “Shortfin Mako Shark | When Federal Quota is Available. | 83 FL”
Source: Georgia DNR Coastal Resources Division, captured 2026-10-01 (2026 season).
Check your shortfin mako shark in seconds
Say it, snap a photo, or type the length. SlotGauge answers KEEP or RELEASE using today's Georgia rules.
Open SlotGauge for Shortfin Mako SharkMore sharks
About the shortfin mako shark
Species of shark
The shortfin mako shark, also known as the shortfin mako, blue pointer, or bonito shark, is a species of large mackerel shark. It is commonly referred to as the mako shark, as is the longfin mako shark. The fastest known shark species, able to reach speeds of 74 km/h (46 mph) in bursts, the shortfin mako can attain sizes of more than 4 m (13 ft) in length and weigh over 570 kg (1,260 lb). The species is classified as Endangered by the IUCN.
Read more about Shortfin mako shark on Wikipedia →
Text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0. Regulations on this page come from Georgia DNR Coastal Resources Division, not Wikipedia.
Frequently asked
What is the size limit for Shortfin Mako Shark in Georgia?
83 inch minimum in Georgia state waters.
How many Shortfin Mako Shark can you keep per day in Georgia?
1 per angler or boat, whichever is less — only when the federal shortfin mako retention quota is open.
When is Shortfin Mako Shark season in Georgia?
Open year-round.
Is my Shortfin Mako Shark a keeper today?
A shortfin mako shark is a keeper today if it measures at least 83 inches, with a daily limit of 1.