Saltwater Angler Education Program

These educational events are intended for families and beginners who are interested in learning how to saltwater fish.

The clinic will cover:

• Knot tying
• How to cast
• Fishing from a pier and from shore
• Measuring your catch and following regulations
• Responsible angler practices
• Catch and release fishing

and includes fun takeaways, handouts, coloring books, instructional field guides, and more!

Our 2026 youth fishing clinic schedule will be posted below as events are organized. Continue checking back in! Registration links become active several weeks prior to the event under the "clinic" headline. As clinics reach capacity, you will be notified about waitlist status. 

Questions? Interested in learning more about having DMF help you plan a saltwater fishing clinic or activity? Contact Kim Fine at kimberly.trull@mass.gov with the subject line "Saltwater Fishing Clinic Information".

We offer educational seminars geared towards adults who would like to learn more about saltwater fishing. If you're interested in hosting a seminar, please let us know so we can tailor a class to the needs of your group. Possible seminars include:

• Saltwater fishing 101:  The basics     
• Understanding fishing equipment for each species  
• Targeting saltwater species in Massachusetts and where to fish  
• How to filet and cook saltwater fish of Massachusetts

Can't come to a fishing class? It's still easy to learn! All you need to get started is some simple gear and a little practice. Download our Saltwater Fishing Field Guide (also available in Spanish) and watch the partnering video tutorials to learn how to setup saltwater fishing gear, tie fishing knots, cast, and successfully catch and release your first fish! 

You need a license to fish in saltwater if you are 16 or older. Licenses are free for those age 60 or older. Get your license now.

Interested in freshwater fishing? Check out the Freshwater Fishing Education Program.

In 2024, the Saltwater Angler Education Program received funding from the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation to translate saltwater angler education materials into Spanish. Below you'll find translated digital versions of some of our clinic materials. You can also pick up a printed copy of our popular Saltwater Fishing Youth Field Guide in Spanish at our Gloucester and New Bedford office locations and at any of our upcoming angler education clinics.