Fishing Mexican Waters/Passport?

[cajunman]

I was reading an article in the AAA magazine that mentioned the passport requirements going into effect for travel by air, land, or water. Got me to thinking, will we need passports to fish Mexican waters?

I've searched the Net but can't find any info, anyone know?
tks
rich

[jcole4455]

Short answer, I can't remember. However, there has been tons of information concerning just that on this board, hit the search button and I'm sure you will find what you need.

[jeffr1269]

From what I've heard, they've lightened up on the passport requirements when traveling down by car or boat---it's not a requirement. If you have one, bring it. if you don't, just make sure your boat has the mex permit as well as every passenger on it.

[forefrazier]

What about when crossing over into Mexican waters for the day? Obviously you need a Mexican fishing permit but does the boat need an additional type permit? I hear of a lot of guys crossing over to Rockpile, Coronados, etc to fish for the day and say they have not been fishing for quite a while. Hard to believe they would have a vessel permit also.

[troutbum619]

Yes, you need a Mex license for the boat and a fishing license for each person on board. Don't know about a passport. Next time I get stopped by homeland security, I guess I'll find out.

[forefrazier]

Thanks Trout:

How long does it take to process and where do you start the application?

[dessie99]

vessel permit for mex is real simple just bring registration and youll be out in 10 mins, I got mine at hook line and sinker

[ladynglr]

according to bob fletcher at sac, starting in january you will need a passport to enter mexican waters. this is whether you land or not. so, even the 3/4 day boats fishing the coronado islands will need passports. this is always subject to change as far as the american government is concerned. bob is still working on this. but, my advice to any person planning on fishing in mexican waters next year is to plan ahead, like now, and get the passport thing going. it's only a matter of time before you will need it.

[h2oboy]

earlier this summer we checked into the shelter island station and i asked that very question regarding the passports to both agents. quote: "that's a good question." i followed up with a question regarding what would happen if you don't have one. quote: "the u.s. government will never turn away a u.s. citizen from its border. you'd be held until your identity and nationality could be verified." so i really don't know the answer, but it took us almost 4 months for my wife's and my renewal- with no expediting. hope it helps. i'll start carrying mine on the boat once it's required.

frank
h2oboy

[troutbum619]

Squidco and Barnicle Bills in Lemon Grove have mexican licenses (Boat and person)

Thanks for the update on the passport. Guess I'll have to get busy.