Summary of fishing laws in Antigua
Do I need a permit to fish in Antigua and Barbuda?
Yes and No. You need to have a license to fish from a vessel. However, you aren’t required to have one when fishing from land. Contact the Fisheries Division to arrange a fishing permit that allows you to fish from your boat in Antigua. A three-month fishing license will cost about $100.
Are there regulations on the type of gear or equipment I can use?
Yes. If using a wire fish trap, the mesh openings must be a minimum of 1.5-inches. It is also illegal to use more than six rods and reels at once.
Should I know of any marine protected areas to avoid?
Yes. There are currently six Antigua and Barbuda marine protected areas – four around Antigua and two around Barbuda.
- Cades Marine Reserve (Antigua)
- Diamond and Salt Fish Tail Reefs (Antigua)
- Northeast Marine Management Area (Antigua)
- Long Bay Public Park (Antigua)
- Codrington Lagoon (Barbuda)
- Palaster Reef (Barbuda)
- Nelsons Dockyard National Parks (Antigua)
What species-specific regulations are there for fishing in Antigua and Barbuda?
Restrictions
- Lobster: It is illegal to harvest a lobster molting, carrying eggs, or less than 3.75 inches in length.
- Conch: It is illegal to harvest conch with a flared lip, weighing less than eight ounces, or a shell that measures less than 7 inches.
Closed Seasons
- Nassau Grouper, Red Hind, and Coney (January 1 – March 31)
- Parrotfish (May 1 – July 31)
- Lobster (May 1 – June 30)
- Conch (July 1 – August 31)
No season
- Turtles: It is also illegal to take a turtle found onshore, disturb or destroy a nest, or be in possession of turtle eggs.
* Fines of up to $1850 can be given to anyone who does not comply with these laws.
Can I spearfish in Antigua and Barbuda?
No. Spearfishing In Antigua and Barbuda is reserved for citizens only. Locals must have a permit to spearfish in the country.