What to Fish for in Cancun

The most popular fish in Cancun are the Sawfish, Bonito, Snapper, Grouper, Kingfish, Roosterfish, Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon, Snook and Sea Trout.

Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Barracuda, Catfish and Tuna are species that you can find in deep waters and are definitely not suitable for fly or light tackle fishing.

There is a certain restriction on what can you do with your catch and when to catch it. Some are protected by law due to the fact that they are endangered species. There are several types of fish (among which are the Marlin and the Sailfish) which, when caught, must be weighed, measured, photographed and immediately released.

When fish are in reproductive stages or when there is a sanitary alert, closed seasons are implemented. A fish caught during this season must be returned to the sea, dead or alive. Your guide will be able to tell you when these seasons are and what to do.

Any edible catch that is caught during open season, however, is free for you to take. Your guide can tell you how much you are allowed for personal consumption and which are recommended for its quality. At the marina, your fish can be cut into fillets and most hotels can even cook and prepare your fish any way you want.  Ask your hotel's concierge or chef for more details.