Do You Need a Fishing License in Mexico in 2024? Navigating the Rules for Anglers

If you’re planning a fishing trip to Mexico in 2024, it’s crucial to understand the country’s fishing license requirements. Mexican law states that all people on a boat that has any fishing tackle aboard must have a current Mexican fishing license, regardless of age. If you’re old enough to hold a pole, you need a license.

Fishing licenses in Mexico are sold by the day, week, month, or year. The prices vary depending on the duration of the license and whether you’re a member of a travel club like Discover Baja. As of 2024, the prices for Discover Baja members are:

• One Day: $25
• One Week: $43
• One Month: $62
• One Year: $70

If you’re not a member, there’s an extra fee of $10 per license ($8 for a daily license).

Where Can You Purchase a Mexican Fishing License?

There are several ways to obtain a Mexican fishing license in 2024:

• Online: You can purchase your license online through websites like Mexpermits. The process is completely online, and the permit is available to print right after payment.
• In person: If you want to purchase your license in person, you can visit the Tourism Office of the municipality where you are staying. They will either sell the licenses directly or direct you to where you can buy one.
• Through a fishing charter: If you’re going out on a fishing charter, the boat’s captain will likely handle getting licenses for everyone on the charter.

If you’re driving through or living in San Diego, the Fisherman’s Landing located in Shelter Island is a convenient option to obtain a fishing license. They offer the added convenience of being open seven days a week with customer-friendly business hours.

What Type of Fish Can You Catch with a Mexican Fishing License?

Mexican sportfishing licenses allow you to fish only for fin fish. You are allowed to fish for squid, but non-citizens are not allowed to take any other invertebrates such as lobster, clams, or shrimp. Totuaba, turtles, and marine mammals may not be captured at any time.

It’s important to be aware of the Mexican fishing regulations and follow them. The standard license only allows you to catch fin fish. All mollusks or crustaceans are prohibited, and all turtles and marine mammals are protected and cannot be captured.

What Gear is Allowed When Sportfishing in Mexico?

When sportfishing in Mexico in 2024, you may only have one line and hook per person in the water. You are allowed to have additional (spare) equipment onboard the boat. If you are fishing for bottom fish, you are allowed up to four hooks on a vertical line.

The number of poles you take or the amount of tackle you bring depends on the captain and fishing charter you are using. But when fishing in Mexico, only one rod and one line are permitted in the water per person.

Do You Need a Mexican Fishing License for Shore Fishing?

No, a Mexican fishing license is not required if you are just fishing from the shore. If your feet are on land (even if you’re wading), you do not need a license.

However, if you are fishing from a boat, or spearfishing, you need a Mexican fishing license. Every person on the boat, regardless of age, needs a license. Furthermore, even if you’re not planning on fishing but there is fishing gear onboard, everyone needs a license.