Know Before You Go

Fishing License & Regulations

Everything you need to know about staying legal on the water in Los Cabos. Licenses, bag limits, size restrictions, and protected species.

Fishing Licenses

Every angler fishing in Mexican waters must possess a valid sportfishing license, regardless of age. There are no exceptions. Your charter operator typically handles this; always confirm when booking.

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Daily License

Valid for one day. Included in most charter prices. Your captain handles it.

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Weekly License

Valid for 7 consecutive days. Best for longer fishing trips.

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Monthly License

Valid for 30 consecutive days.

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Annual License

Valid calendar year (Jan 1 - Dec 31).

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How Your Charter Handles It

When you book through cabos.fishing, the daily fishing license is included. The captain has them ready when you board. You may need to provide your name and passport number in advance.

Bag Limits & Size Restrictions

Species	Limit	Notes
Billfish (Marlin, Sailfish)	1 per boat / day	Catch & release encouraged
Yellowfin Tuna	3 per angler / day	Prized table fish
Dorado (Mahi-Mahi)	3 per angler / day	Excellent table quality
Wahoo	2 per angler / day	Trophy fish
Roosterfish	2 per angler / day	Catch & release encouraged
Snapper (Pargo)	5 per angler / day	12-inch minimum
Grouper	3 per angler / day	14-inch minimum

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Strict Enforcement

Bag limits are per angler, not per boat. Exceeding limits can result in fines, confiscation of catch, and potential vessel impoundment. Mexican law is strict; respect the limits.

Catch & Release Best Practices

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Circle Hooks

Set in the corner of the mouth; reduce deep-hooking and improve survival

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Minimal Handling

Keep fish in water. If needed, 30 seconds max. Support horizontally.

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Revive Before Release

Face into current, push water through gills until strong.

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Quick Photos

Hold horizontally, keep in water, return quickly.

Protected Species

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Important

Billfish over the 1-per-boat limit must be released. Sea turtles: all species protected. Many shark species protected. Your crew is trained in proper release techniques and will handle it professionally.

Enforcement

Mexican fishing regulations are enforced by CONAPESCA and the Mexican Navy (SEMAR). Inspections occur at the marina when you return. Your captain has all required documentation ready. Always cooperate; penalties for violations can be severe.

Book a Licensed, Legal Charter

All charters include your fishing license and follow Mexican regulations.

Book a Charter →