Hook ban' and $400 fines in effect for fishermen under state's emergency rules

A ban on specialized fishing gear is expanding in Massachusetts’ Cape Cod region under emergency rules meant to prevent anglers from luring white sharks. Nantucket is now included in the state’s partial hook ban that began for northern and eastern Cape Cod in 2025. The regulations prohibit using a wire or metal leader at least 18 inches long paired with a hook that has a gap larger than 5/8 of an inch. Officials previously banned luring white sharks, but said it was hard to determine intent versus accidental capture. The emergency rules are in effect for 90 days, with officials considering an extension into 2027. Violations can carry fines of up to $400, while fishing for other sharks remains allowed.