How to Get Legal Documents to Fish in Mexico: A Step-by-Step Guide for Spearfishers

Fishing the waters of Mexico is a bucket-list experience for spearfishers chasing yellowtail, wahoo, dorado, roosterfish, and a dozen other incredible species. But before you load up the truck and head south of the border, there's a critical checklist of legal documents you need to have in order. Getting caught without the proper paperwork can result in heavy fines, confiscated gear, and a trip-ending encounter with Mexican authorities.

The process has become more involved in recent years, but it's straightforward once you know the steps. Here's everything you need to legally fish the waters within 12 miles of the Mexican coast, whether you're spearfishing from shore, freediving from a panga, or running offshore on a private boat.

Step 1: Valid Passport for Everyone on Board

Every person on the boat or in the water must have a valid passport. This is a hard requirement with no exceptions. If your passport is expired or close to expiring, renew it well in advance of your trip. Mexican authorities and the US border both require a passport for reentry, and processing times can take weeks or longer during peak travel seasons.

Step 2: Mexican Fishing License (Permiso de Pesca)

Every person fishing — including every spearfisher in the water — must have a valid Mexican fishing license. Licenses are available in daily, weekly, monthly, and annual options. You can purchase them online through the Mexican government's CONAPESCA website or through authorized vendors. Keep your license on you at all times while fishing. Inspectors do check, and the fines for fishing without a license are severe.

Step 3: Temporary Import Permit for Your Boat

If you're bringing a boat into Mexico, you'll need a Temporary Import Permit (TIP). This permit registers your vessel with Mexican customs and authorizes it to operate in Mexican waters. You can apply online through the Banjercito website before your trip or obtain one at the border. Make sure to have your boat's registration and title documents readily available, as they're required for the application.

Step 4: FMM Tourist Card

The Forma Migratoria Múltiple is your official Mexican tourist permit required for travel beyond the border zone. You can obtain this at the border crossing or online in advance. Keep this document safe throughout your trip — you'll need to present it when you leave Mexico. Losing your FMM can create serious complications at the border on your way home.

Step 5: Mexican Auto Insurance

Your US auto insurance is not valid in Mexico. You must purchase Mexican auto insurance before crossing the border. This is available online, through AAA, or from vendors at the border. If you're involved in an accident in Mexico without valid Mexican insurance, you can be detained and your vehicle impounded. Buy full coverage and make sure it covers the trailer and boat if you're towing one.

Step 6: Check Current Regulations Before Every Trip

Mexican fishing regulations can change, and specific species may have seasonal closures, size limits, or bag limits that differ from what you're used to at home. Check the latest regulations through CONAPESCA or a reliable local outfitter before every trip. Spearfishing regulations in Mexico also vary by region — some marine protected areas prohibit spearfishing entirely while others allow it with restrictions. Knowing the rules before you go protects you legally and helps preserve the fishery for future generations.

Get Your Paperwork Done Early and Dive with Confidence

The paperwork for fishing Mexico takes some effort, but it's worth every minute when you're floating over crystal-clear water full of gamefish with zero worries about legal problems. Handle all your documents well before your departure date so you can focus entirely on the diving. For more spearfishing trip planning guides and international diving tips, visit SpearFactor.com.