Do You Need a Fishing Permit to Fish in the Bahamas?

By Sail Abacos, Editorial Team

Reviewed by Captain Ronald Rolle

Fishing in the Bahamas requires a separate sport fishing permit for any foreign-owned vessel. This is not included in your cruising permit fees and must be purchased in addition to your vessel clearance documentation. As of recent guidance, permits cost $100 for vessels under 50 feet and $300 for vessels 50 feet and larger.

One important detail many boaters overlook: fishing permits are only valid for 30 days. Even if you hold a 12-month cruising permit, you must renew your fishing permit monthly if you plan to continue fishing throughout your stay. Plan your fishing activities accordingly and budget for multiple permits on extended cruises.

Flats fishing has additional requirements. All persons over the age of 12 must hold a license to fish the flats, regardless of nationality. If two or more anglers are fishing the flats from a vessel, a Bahamian certified fishing guide must be used, and only Bahamian-registered vessels are permitted on the flats.

Strict catch limits apply to all anglers. Migratory species like kingfish, dolphin (mahi-mahi), tuna, and wahoo are limited to 18 fish per vessel at any time. Demersal species such as groupers and snappers cannot exceed 60 pounds or 20 fish per vessel. Conch is limited to 6 per vessel, and crawfish (lobster) to 10.

Fishing methods are restricted to traditional means: hook or lure on a line held by hand or attached to a pole, rod, or reel. Spears, fish traps, and nets are prohibited except for landing nets. Only Hawaiian sling-type devices are allowed for spearfishing. Vessels may use a maximum of 6 rods or reels without a special permit.

All billfish species including marlin, sailfish, and swordfish must be released unharmed unless caught during a sanctioned tournament with proper permits and decals.

More Bahamas answers.