How much does a fishing permit cost in Mexico?

An individual permit costs $254 MXN per week, $411 MXN per month, or $740 MXN per year (approximately $14, $23, or $41 USD).

How many bass can I catch per day?

The general limit is 5 bass per day, though some states like Michoacán have lower limits (3 per day). Catch-and-release is highly recommended.

Fishing Regulations in Mexico

Q: Do I need a permit to fish in Mexico?

Yes, all persons over 16 need a sport fishing permit issued by CONAPESCA to fish in Mexican waters. Children under 16 are exempt if accompanied by a licensed adult.

Everything you need to know about permits, closed seasons, minimum sizes, and state-by-state regulations.

Sport Fishing Permits

Issued by CONAPESCA (National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries)

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Individual Sport Fishing Permit

1 week / 1 month / 1 year

$254 / $411 / $740 MXN (~$14 / $23 / $41 USD)

Standard permit for recreational fishing in inland waters. Allows up to 5 bass per day.

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Tournament Permit

Event duration

Variable (organizer)

For officially organized tournaments. The organizer manages the collective permit with CONAPESCA.

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Minor's Permit (< 16 years)

Accompanied by adult

Free

Children under 16 can fish without a permit as long as they're accompanied by a licensed adult.

How to Get Your Permit?

Visit the CONAPESCA website or go to a SAGARPA office

Fill out the application with your personal details and permit type

Make the payment at a bank or online

Receive your digital or printed permit. Always carry it when fishing

Closed Seasons

Species	Period	Note
Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)	No general closed season — state-specific regulations	Some states impose closures during spawning (March–May). Check local regulations.
Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)	March 15 — June 30	Closed in mountain rivers and streams during spawning season.
Carp (Cyprinus carpio)	No closed season	No seasonal restrictions. Minimum size 25 cm.

State-by-State Regulations

Each state may have additional regulations beyond federal rules

State	Lakes	Limit	Min. Size	Notes
Sinaloa	El Salto, Comedero, Baccarac, Hidalgo, Picachos	5 bass/day, catch-and-release recommended	30 cm	Lodges promote 100% catch-and-release. Local guide mandatory at major reservoirs.
Jalisco	Cajón de Peñas, La Vega	5 bass/day	25 cm	Free access to most reservoirs. Verify local permits for watercraft.
Tamaulipas	Vicente Guerrero, Marte R. Gómez, Cuchillo	5 bass/day	30 cm	Increased enforcement at border reservoirs. Active B.A.S.S. tournament circuit.
Michoacán	Pátzcuaro, Zirahuen	3 bass/day	25 cm	Heritage lakes with stricter regulations. Respect Purépecha fishing traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to fish in Mexico?

Yes, all persons over 16 need a sport fishing permit issued by CONAPESCA. The permit is mandatory for both nationals and foreigners. Children under 16 are exempt if accompanied by a licensed adult.

Can I catch and release without a permit?

No. Even catch-and-release fishing requires a permit in Mexico. However, some private lodges may include the permit in their all-inclusive package.

What is the fine for fishing without a permit?

Fines range from $1,000 to $30,000 MXN depending on severity, plus confiscation of fishing equipment. Repeat offenses may result in higher penalties.

Is night fishing legal in Mexico?

Generally yes, with a valid permit. However, some reservoirs and states have specific hour restrictions. Check local regulations before planning a night session.

Get Your Fishing Permit

Apply for your sport fishing permit directly on the CONAPESCA portal.

Visit CONAPESCA →

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