Can You Keep Fish in Cabo? (Daily Limits in Mexico)
Quick answer: Yes. Mexico uses a combined daily limit of 10 “points” per person. Billfish (marlin/sailfish/swordfish) = 5 points each (limit: 1 billfish per person per day). Dorado (mahi mahi), roosterfish, wahoo = 2 points each. Snappers (pargo) & most reef fish = 1 point each. A valid fishing license is required for everyone on board.
| Species | Can I keep it? | Daily rule | Counts as |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marlin (blue/black/striped) | Yes | 1 billfish per person/day (marlin, sailfish or swordfish total) | 5 points |
| Sailfish | Yes | Included in the 1 billfish rule above | 5 points |
| Dorado (Mahi Mahi) | Yes | Within the combined 10-point limit | 2 points each |
| Roosterfish | Yes | Within the combined 10-point limit | 2 points each |
| Wahoo | Yes | Within the combined 10-point limit | 2 points each |
| Snapper (Pargo) | Yes | Within the combined 10-point limit | 1 point each |
Note: Sea turtles, totoaba and certain sharks are protected and cannot be taken. Restaurants in Mexico should not sell sport-caught marlin or dorado.
Can you keep Marlin in Cabo?
Yes. Mexico allows 1 billfish per person per day (marlin, sailfish or swordfish total). A single billfish counts as 5 points toward your combined 10-point daily limit. License required.
Can you keep Sailfish (Pez Vela)?
Yes. Sailfish falls under the same 1 billfish per person/day rule and also counts 5 points.
Can you keep Dorado (Mahi Mahi)?
Yes. Dorado is allowed within the combined limit. Each dorado counts as 2 points toward your 10-point daily total.
Can you keep Roosterfish?
Yes. Roosterfish is permitted; each fish counts as 2 points toward your daily 10-point limit.
Can you keep Wahoo?
Yes. Wahoo is permitted; each fish counts as 2 points toward the combined limit.
Can you keep Snapper (Pargo)?
Yes. Snappers generally count as 1 point each toward your 10-point daily limit.
Fish processing: We fillet at no extra charge (tip appreciated). Vacuum-packing & freezing available at $2 USD per pound, and we deliver to your hotel before your flight.