How to Properly Measure a Fish

September 24, 2020

Question: I am under the impression that striped bass are to be measured using the “total length” measurement, and not the fork length. Is this correct? (Stu)

Answer: Yes. Most freshwater fish with a size limit, including stripers, are measured to total length. This is the longest straight-line distance from the tip of the head to the end of the longest lobe of the tail (CCR, Title 14, section 1.62). The first rule when measuring fish is to lay the fish flat on its side and always pinch the mouth closed. The most accurate method is to place the fish’s snout against a perpendicular surface and then measure along the intersecting horizontal surface to the end of the tail. Don’t measure using a flexible “tape” over the fish itself or you will be given a longer (false) reading.

On the ocean side, most saltwater fish with size limits are measured to total length, but there are some that are measured to fork length instead (e.g. bonito, albacore, barracuda and yellowtail). Fork length is the straight-line distance from the tip of the head to the center of the tail fin (CCR, Title 14, section 1.62). So again, lay the fish flat on its side, pinch the mouth closed and take your measurement from the tip of the head to the center of the fork of the tail. These are the only two measurements that you will need to know for the purposes of the regulations when measuring whole fish.