In ocean waters and estuaries the limit is a total of ten fish per day, with no more than 5 catches of a single specie, except of the species of Marlin, Sailfish, Swordfish and Shark, of which only one specimen of either is Allowed and which count as five of any other specie. or Dorado, Roosterfish, Shad or Tarpon of which only two samplers of each specie are allowed and which also count as five of any other specie.

Limit on inland bodies of water (rivers, lakes, dams. etc.) is five fish per day, whether of a single specie or in combination.

Underwater fishing is limited to five fish per day, using rubber band or spring type harpoons, and only while skin diving.

There is no limit to the practice of catch and release, as long as the fish that exceed the bag limit be returned to their environment in good survival condition.

It is illegal to capture and maintain alive any fish for ornamental purposes.

It is prohibited to receive any financial gain from the product obtained through sport fishing.

It is prohibited to dump trash, litter or substances that harm the aquatic flora or fauna, whether on lakes, river banks, shores or oceanic waters.

It is prohibited to collect shells, corals, sea anemones and snails, or to disturb the original ecosystem environment.

It is prohibited to practice sportfishing 250 meters or less from swimmers.

It is prohibited to use artificial lighting to attract large quantifies of fish.

It is prohibited to discharge firearms in Mexican waters

It is requested that all unusual activities, occurrences or record catches be reported to the nearest office of the Ministry of the Environment-Natural Resources and Fisheries, or to its representation in San Diego, CA., in order to ensure the preservation of natural resources for the continued enjoyment of all fishermen.

Fish caught under a sportfishing license may not be filleted aboard the vessel from which it was caught.

Applications for Mexican Sport Fishing Licenses can be obtained at the Mexico Department of Fisheries office in San Diego, however, most people purchase them through their local fishing and tackle store or Mexican Insurance dealer. If you receive your application from the Department of Fisheries office, upon completion, applications should be submitted to:

Mexico Department of Fisheries
2550 5th Avenue, Suite 101
San Diego, CA 92103

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm to answer any questions. The phone number is (619) 233-6956.

Applications sent to this address must be accompanied by a cashier's check or money order for the exact amount due, and made payable to Oficina Recaudadora de Pesca; personal checks are not accepted. For mail orders, be sure to include a stamped self-addressed return envelope.

The Mexico Department of Fisheries also has offices in Mexico (Oficina de Pesca), but it is advisable to obtain fishing licenses before crossing the border.

US Customs Regulations: Sportfishermen may bring into the United States only fish for personal consumption. US Customs requires that the fish catch must be accompanied by a California Declaration of Entry form, obtainable at California Fish and Game offices and at the US Border ports of entry. (Note that different regulations may apply if you live in a state other than California; for information regarding your state's regulations, contact your local Department of Fish and Game or your local US Customs office) The number of fish must not exceed the Mexican bag limit. Fish transported across the boarder can be eviscerated but must be identifiable; usually the head, tail, or patch of skin left intact will suffice.

Anyone bringing fish into the United States will be asked by Customs officials to present a valid Mexican fishing license or a Mexico Department of Fisheries form covering the purchase of the fish.

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