SlotGaugeCheck a catchAmerican Lobster regulations in Maryland
· Shellfish & crabs · 2026 season
American Lobster size limit, season and daily limit
| Where | Season | Size limit | Daily limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Ocean & coastal bays | April 1 – January 31 | 3.375–5.25 inch slot | 100 per person per day |
Notes
- A 2026-10-31 check against the official source found a discrepancy in this species' notes. Read the official wording before keeping the fish: https://www.eregulations.com/maryland/fishing/atlantic-seasons-sizes-limits
- Land whole; no spearing; no egg-bearing females.
Exact Maryland DNR Fishing & Boating Services wording
- Season
- April 1–January 31
- Size
- 3 3/8–5 1/4 inches carapace length
- Limit
- 100/person/24 hour period or 500 for a 5-day or longer trip when using gear other than lobster traps
- Atlantic Ocean, coastal bays — as printed
- “Lobster | 33⁄8–5¼ inches carapace length | April 1–January 31 | 100/person/24 hour period … | Must be landed whole. Spearing is prohibited. No egg-bearing females.”
Source: Maryland DNR Fishing & Boating Services, captured 2026-10-04 (2026 season).
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About the american lobster
Lobster of the western North Atlantic
The American lobster is a species of lobster found on the Atlantic coast of North America, chiefly from Labrador to New Jersey. It is also known as Atlantic lobster, Canadian lobster, northern lobster, Canadian Reds, or Maine lobster. It is sometimes called the true lobster or common lobster, but those names are ambiguous. It can reach a body length of 64 cm (25 in), and a mass of over 20 kilograms (44 lb), making it not only the heaviest crustacean in the world, but also the heaviest of all living arthropod species. Its closest relative is the European lobster Homarus gammarus, which can be distinguished by its coloration and the lack of spines on the underside of the rostrum. American lobsters are usually bluish green to brown with red spines, but several color variations have been observed.
Read more about American lobster on Wikipedia →
Text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0. Regulations on this page come from Maryland DNR Fishing & Boating Services, not Wikipedia.
Frequently asked
What is the size limit for American Lobster in Maryland?
3.375–5.25 inch slot in Maryland state waters.
How many American Lobster can you keep per day in Maryland?
100 per person per day.
When is American Lobster season in Maryland?
April 1 – January 31.
Is my American Lobster a keeper today?
A american lobster is a keeper today if it measures between 3.375 and 5.25 inches, with a daily limit of 100.