Official Derby Rules

METHODS OF FISHING and BOUNDARIES:
A Competitor must be registered in the Derby BEFORE commencing to fish. From the moment a fish strikes or takes a bait or lure, the angler must hook, fight and land or boat the fish without the aid of any other person. This includes another angler touching the rod, reel or line after the fish has been hooked.The only exception is another person may grasp the leader in order to gaff or net the fish. This rule applies to Junior anglers, as well. The use of drones for the purposes of locating or catching fish or to gain a competitive advantage is prohibited during the Derby.

• SHORE: All fish entered as shore fish must be caught from the shores of Martha’s Vineyard or Chappaquiddick Islands.
• BOAT: A boat fish is any fish hooked on a boat. A boat is a "boat" whether it is tied, moored, anchored, trolling or drifting. In the event that there is a question as to whether or not a fish is to be considered a boat or shore fish, the Derby Committee will determine the category and that decision will be final. All fish entered as boat fish must be caught from a boat which is within the posted bounds of the Derby. The bounds are delineated on the map in the Rules Brochure (download here). An eligible fish must not be transported outside of Derby boundaries. No fish caught from a boat may touch any land except for Martha's Vineyard.