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You Need to Know That

Fishing Licenses

Mexican sportfishing licenses are required whether you fish privately or through a charter service, and may be purchased in Los Cabos. before you book a boat, ask if your license is included, as this will ad 20.00 usd per rod, to your budget.

Mexican Fishing Regulations

  • Use of nets or other non-rod and line setups is prohibited with the exception of some spear fishing.
  • Fishing by any means is not allowed in protected areas: Cabo San Lucas Bay, Santa Maria Bay, and Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park.
  • A maximum of 10 fish are allowed per day, per angler. No more than five of any one species may be kept.
  • No more than one full-grown, male marlin may be kept; all female marlin must be released.
  • No more than two tarpon, halibut, or sailfish may be kept.
  • Capture of all sea turtle species and shellfish is prohibited.

Captain and Crew

All charters come with a captain and a mate or crew who are knowledgeable about the weather, water conditions, and more importantly, what is biting and where.

The mate or crew will take care of setting up all the gear and baiting the lines. Your participation comes in once you get a bite. If you’re a beginner don’t worry, the captain and crew are used to helping novices catch fish!

Bait

If you do not charter all-inclusive you will have to buy bait at the dock or stop for bait along the way to the fishing grounds. Live bait costs $2 US each; the standard amount is $20 US for 10 bait.

Tipping the Captain

The standard tip for your captain is between 10 to 15 % of your charter cost; the tip is shared with the mate or crew, paid when you’re leaving the boat. Crews would much rather be paid in cash than with fish.

Returning to port

Upon returning to the dock with your catch, your fish will be cleaned and filleted at no charge if you are on an all-inclusive charter. If not, the captain will point you in the direction of the cleaning tables where you’ll arrange to have your catch cleaned. Ask your captain what the going rate is and pay accordingly. It’s a good idea to keep your fish in sight, to avoid ending up with someone else’s less desirable catch!

Storing,freezing, or cooking your catch

Most resorts and hotels will gladly keep your fish frozen in their facilities – check with your concierge before hand. Many restaurants and hotels will be happy cook your catch for you, for a reasonable charge per person.

Bringing your fish home

You may bring your fish back home with you as long as it is identifiable to customs inspectors and packed according to airline regulations. Check with your airlines ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Coolers can be purchased in Los Cabos or you may bring your own from home. Dry ice isn’t necessary – just ice and good, strong tape to seal your cooler.