Don't know what the laws are up in Mass, but its something like 16"
down this way. Chances are, the fish you caught was a bigger "tiderunner"
which comes in earlier to spawn.
They were very scarce, thanks in part to super aggresive commercial fishing
in the North Carolina, etc. Now they are (hopefully) making a comeback.
I've had good luck with them in the summer on Long Island on the fly. The folks
in Jersey seem to be doing even better.
Lets keep our fingers crossed. Maybe you'll see another some day.