Cancun Fishing DIY
(Do it yourself)

Fishing in Cancun, Mexico - Fish Cancun!

Cancun is connected by 2 bridges, one on the north side called Calinda and the other one on the south side called Nizuc. Both these bridges have channels that connect the ocean to the lagoon and a lot of species move in and out of these channels including Jack Crevalle, Tarpon, Snook, Snappers and Barracudas. You can only fish the north side (Calinda) as Nizuc area is a protected area and no fishing is allowed there!

Right off the beaches in Cancun DIY fishing is easy in front of your hotel, especially hotels located on the east side of the hotel zone can be very productive early morning and late afternoons. Surf casting rods are a must as you’ll need to make long casts past the surf and there are 2 good ways to fish. One is just to put some lead and a hook with some shrimp or squid on it, easy to get when you’re staying in an “all inclusive” resort. This method is a very effective way if you’re trying to catch Snappers, Permit and other bottom feeders. Another good way to hook up is using Spoons, Jigs and other artificial lures. Make sure you put some wire leader as often barracudas cruise along the shore line.

A few things to note

Most Marinas won't let you fish of their docks as they are private and the fish that hang out there are pets, most of them get fed every day, especially Tarpon.

I wouldn't recommend wading in the lagoon as the bottom is very soft and there are quite a few crocodiles roaming around.

A few other spots that are worth trying is the northern point of Cancun called "Punta Norte" and the south point called "Punta Nizuc".

Early morning and around sunset right of the beaches can be productive for Jacks and Barracudas.

Officially you will need a fishing license to fish all waters in Mexico, you can apply for this online with a government institution called conapesca, here's a link to their E5 form: conapesca.gob.mx

Reality is that no one checks on this so it’s up to you if you want to go and order one as it can be a bit of a hassle.