Mass and public fishing access

[surferman]

I'm going to Mass in a few weeks. I heard that it is difficult to access some area's of the beach for fishing due to private property. I came across this general information about the public trust and some links to access points. Can anyone add to this?

Public Access to the Ocean and Private Property

Private property in Massachusetts is typically owned to the low water mark, but the Commonwealth of Massachusetts owns lands below the low water mark. Moreover, Chapter 91 of the Massachusetts General Laws preserves the public's right to "fish, fowl, and navigate" waters of the Commonwealth, including lands in the intertidal zone (between the high and low water marks), even if it is privately owned. This law does not convey the right to cross private property or uplands to reach these areas. Some Chapter 91 licenses provide for public access to intertidal areas across intertidal areas. For more information on the specifics of this law, visit these Commonwealth of Massachusetts websites:


Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management's Page on Public Access to the Shoreline

Another Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management page with links

Massachusetts Attorney General's Explanation of Public and Private Property Rights along the Coast

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection's Chapter 91 Waterway Licensing Program

Massachusetts Public Access Board (DFWELE)


Public Access Board Live Map with links

[JakeF]

Yes, that law still stands and is known, for the most part, by enforcement. If you can get to the "intertidal zone" without trespassing, you're all set. However, therein lies the problem for many locations. MA is nowhere near as bad as CT, but it is true that many areas are inaccessible by foot due to the fact that all surrounding property is privately owned and parking may be restricted.

That said, there are still plenty of places where access is easy and unrestricted for the most part.