Fishing Size Limits by State
Complete guide to legal fish sizes across all 50 states. Know the minimum size before you keep.
Fish Size Limits Reference
Find legal minimum sizes for bass, trout, walleye, and more across all 50 states. Updated for 2026 with daily limits and special regulations.
Popular Species Quick Reference
Common fish size limits across states
Largemouth Bass
35 states with limits
Smallmouth Bass
23 states with limits
Walleye
18 states with limits
Striped Bass
10 states with limits
Northern Pike
7 states with limits
Trout
6 states with limits
Crappie
4 states with limits
Rainbow Trout
4 states with limits
Understanding Size Limits
Why size regulations matter for conservation
Minimum Size Limits
Ensures fish reach maturity and spawn at least once before harvest. Protects young fish during their growth phase.
Example: 12" minimum bass means all bass under 12 inches must be released.
Slot Limits
Protects fish in their prime spawning years. Release fish within the slot, keep those outside the range.
Example: 15-20" slot means release fish 15-20" but keep smaller or larger fish.
Special Regulations
Catch-and-release waters, trophy regulations, and water-specific rules that override general limits.
Always check specific water body regulations before fishing.
Got your license ready to show?
Store credentials offline in Hunter Passport
States by Fishing Type
Find states known for your preferred fishing
Coldwater Fisheries
(Trout, Salmon, Steelhead)Warmwater Fisheries
(Bass, Walleye, Catfish)Coastal & Saltwater
(Striped Bass, Redfish, Snook)Fishing Size Limits FAQ
Common questions about fish size regulations
Why do states have fish size limits?
Size limits ensure fish reach sexual maturity and reproduce at least once before being harvested. This maintains healthy populations and sustainable fisheries for future generations. Minimum size limits protect juveniles, while slot limits protect prime spawning-age fish.
What is a slot limit?
A slot limit requires releasing fish within a certain size range (the "slot"). For example, a 15-20" slot means you must release fish between 15-20 inches but can keep those smaller or larger. Slot limits protect fish at their most productive spawning ages while allowing harvest of smaller and trophy-sized fish.
How do I measure a fish correctly?
Measure total length from the tip of the snout (mouth closed) to the tip of the tail. Lay the fish flat against a measuring board or tape. Pinch the tail to get maximum length. Most states measure total length, but some use fork length for certain species.
Do size limits vary by water body?
Yes, many states have water-specific regulations that override general statewide limits. Trophy waters, catch-and-release areas, and special management zones often have stricter or different size limits. Always check regulations for your specific fishing location.
What happens if I keep an undersized fish?
Keeping undersized fish is a violation that can result in fines, confiscation of fish and equipment, and loss of fishing privileges. Penalties vary by state but can be substantial, especially for repeated violations or protected species.
Are size limits the same for catch-and-release?
Catch-and-release has no size restrictions since fish are returned alive. However, some waters require catch-and-release for all fish regardless of size, and certain lure or tackle restrictions may apply to minimize harm to released fish.
All 50 States
View fishing size limits for each state
Your license shouldn't be harder to access than these regulations.
Hunter Passport stores every state's hunting license on your phone. Works without signal — three seconds from tap to warden.