Massachusetts H898 prohibits the harvesting of horseshoe crabs for bait in coastal waters.
Massachusetts H898 amends Chapter 130 of the General Laws to prohibit the harvesting of horseshoe crabs or their eggs from coastal waters for use as bait. Exceptions include taking horseshoe crabs by permit for educational or scientific purposes, provided it does not harm the population, and incidental taking during legal fishing operations if the crabs are returned unharmed. Violators face a $25 fine per crab taken. The Division of Marine Fisheries will enforce the provisions through rules and regulations.
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