Belize Fishing: License Requirements And Exemptions

If you're planning a fishing trip to Belize, you'll need to be aware of the country's fishing license requirements. Belize is known for its diverse fishing opportunities, from reef fishing to deep-sea adventures, and the right licenses are essential to ensure a smooth and legal experience. The country boasts the world's second-largest barrier reef and an abundance of fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers worldwide. So, do you need a fishing license to cast your line in Belize?

Fishing license cost

If you are planning a fishing trip to Belize, it is important to be aware of the relevant fishing license requirements and costs. Here is some information about the fishing license cost in Belize:

• Daily License: For a short fishing trip, you can opt for a daily fishing license. The cost of a one-day fishing license in Belize is BZ $20, which is approximately $10 USD. This option is perfect for those who want to fish for a day without committing to a longer license.
• Weekly License: If you plan on fishing for a week or more, you can purchase a weekly fishing license. The cost of a one-week fishing license in Belize is BZ $50, which is approximately $25 USD. This option provides more flexibility and is a cost-effective choice for a longer fishing trip.
• Annual License: For frequent or long-term visitors to Belize who plan on fishing regularly, an annual fishing license is available. The annual license costs BZ $100, and it must be applied for in person at the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute. This option is convenient for those who plan on making multiple fishing trips to Belize throughout the year.

It is important to note that these license costs are for non-residents and tourists. The requirements and costs may vary for Belizean citizens or permanent residents. Additionally, make sure to abide by the local regulations, such as the protection of certain fish species and the requirement to be accompanied by a licensed tour guide.

By purchasing the appropriate fishing license, you are not only complying with the law but also supporting conservation efforts in Belize. The revenue generated from license sales helps fund initiatives to protect and sustain the local marine life and ecosystem. So, before you cast your line in Belize, make sure you have the right license and are following the regulations to support responsible and sustainable fishing practices.

Fishing license duration

To fish in Belize, you need a valid sport fishing license. This applies to all fishing activities, including river fishing, fishing from the shore, and catch and release.

The duration of fishing licenses in Belize varies depending on your needs. You can purchase a fishing license that is valid for one day or one week. These can be obtained online. If you plan on staying longer, you can purchase an annual license, but this must be done in person at the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) office or through an approved distributor.

The cost of a one-day license is $20 BZ ($10 USD), while a one-week license costs $50 BZ ($25 USD). The price of an annual license is $100 BZ. It is important to note that only Belizean citizens or residents over the age of 65 are exempt from the license requirement. For non-residents over 65, a daily or weekly license is required.

Fishing license application process

To protect its fishing industry, Belize requires anyone participating in any fishing activity, including river fishing, fishing from shore, and catch and release, to have a valid sport fishing license. This applies to all non-residents of Belize aged 16 to 65.

The fishing license application process is as follows:

1-Day or 1-Week License

If you are visiting Belize for a short period and want to fish, you can purchase a 1-day or 1-week license online at https://apps.coastalzonebelize.org. The cost of a 1-day license is $20 BZ ($10 USD), and a 1-week license is $50 BZ ($25 USD).

1-Year License

For longer stays, anglers can purchase a 1-year sport fishing license. This requires an in-person application at the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI)'s Office or an approved distributor of sport fishing licenses. When applying, you must present a valid photo ID.

High Seas Fishing License

If you plan to fish on the high seas or in the waters of another state, you will need to obtain a High Seas Fishing License. These licenses are issued in compliance with the High Seas Fishing License Regulation 33 of 2014 and are valid for 1 year from the issue date. Applications for this license must be made through a legal representative or vessel's resident agent in Belize. The following documents are required to support the application:

• The vessel's current certificate of registry (Belizean ship registration).
• A valid license or permit issued by the relevant State, if applying to operate in another country's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
• Power of attorney appointing a representative in Belize to act on behalf of the applicant.
• A notarized declaration from the owner, operator, and master, stating no involvement in IUU activities and accepting liability for any infringement of the High Seas Fishing Act.
• Annual operational plan of the vessel.
• Crew list, if applicable.
• Current photo of the vessel, displaying markings and identification.
• Ownership documents, including the name and physical address of the owner, valid identification, and proof of address.
• Certificate of incorporation and, if applicable, a certificate of change of name.
• Certificate of good standing and mandate establishing the business relationship.
• Register of members or a list of shareholders holding controlling interest.
• Copies of identification documents of directors and authorized signatories.
• Memorandum, articles, or bylaws of the company.
• Document authenticating ownership and stating the company's permanent physical address.

Please note that additional requirements and fees may apply, and it is recommended to contact the relevant authorities or a local representative for detailed information on the application process.

Fishing regulations

The Government of Belize has implemented several fishing regulations to protect the local marine life. These include:

• The Coastal Zone Management Act (1998) and Sport Fishing Regulations (2009), which created the Belize fishing license. All non-residents between 16 and 65 years old participating in any fishing activity, including river fishing, fishing from shore, or catch and release, must have a valid sport fishing license.
• The mandatory catch and release of bonefish, permit, and tarpon within Belize's borders.
• Closed seasons for conch, lobster, and wild shrimp.
• A ban on fishing while using artificial breathing devices (scuba gear or hookah).
• Restrictions on fishing gear in Marine Protected Areas, including no nets, longlines, or traps.
• A complete ban on certain species, including all Parrotfish, Blue Tang, Surgeon Fish, Permit, Tarpon, Bone Fish, Marine Turtle, Whale Shark, and All Marine Mammals.
• Size limits for conch, lobster, and hickatee.
• A requirement to have a valid commercial fisher folk license and a valid seaworthiness certificate issued by the Belize Port Authority for commercial fishing.
• All captains of commercial vessels are required to submit catch log data.
• Special permits required for taking certain species, exportation, and marine research or filming.

Fishing spots in Belize

Yes, if you're planning on fishing in Belize, you will need a licence. Anyone between the ages of 16 and 65 needs a sport fishing licence, which can be purchased online. A one-day licence costs $20 BZ ($10 USD) and a one-week licence costs $50 BZ ($25 USD).

Now, for the fishing spots!

Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is Belize's largest island and part of the Belize Barrier Reef. It's a major draw for keen fishermen, with an abundance of bonefish, permit and tarpon. It's also great for deep-sea fishing, where you can find big snapper, jacks, barracuda, snook, grouper and more.

Turneffe Atoll

Turneffe Atoll is a famous spot for fishing, both locally and internationally. It's one of three atolls in Belize and is approximately 30 miles long and 10 miles wide. It's a great place to fish in privacy, with a network of flats, creeks and lagoons that house a variety of marine species.

Punta Gorda

Punta Gorda is known as a great spot for permit fishing, within two protected areas: Port Honduras Marine Reserve and Payne's Creek National Park. It's also one of the most untouched and beautiful locations in Belize.

Hopkins

The waters off Hopkins on the southern coast of Belize are ideal for permit, bonefish, tarpon, snapper, mackerel, jacks and barracuda.

Placencia Peninsula

Further south from Hopkins is the Placencia Peninsula, with stunning beaches to the east and biodiverse mangrove lagoons to the west. You can try deep-sea fishing outside the reef for dorado, wahoo, snapper, grouper, barracuda and more.

Belize City

While Belize City is the country's largest city, it's still a gateway to incredible fishing grounds. Head to the rivers and flats inshore, or go a few miles out to explore the reefs.

Frequently asked questions