Massachusetts offers free (no permit required) salt water fishing on Father's Day weekend (June 15-16, 2019) in State waters out to 3 miles offshore. I believe this includes rivers downstream of the last bridge before the ocean.
Except for this special deal, to fish in Massachusetts ocean waters, persons aged 16 and older need to get a Recreational Saltwater Fishing Permit from MA DMF. Those over age 60 and disabled persons can get free permits, others pay $10. Permits expire at the end of the year and must be renewed to continue fishing. MA has reciprocal permitting agreements with several other states - see https://www.mass.gov/service-details/who-needs-a-recreational-saltwater-fishing-permit .