Mexican Navy to Board U.S. Fishing Boats in Drug War

The next time anglers chase an Albacore or bluefin tuna in Mexican waters, they might want to add their U.S. passports to the tackle box.

The Mexican Navy has been boarding vessels in Mexican waters and asking for proof of citizenship.

Arturo Martinez of the Baja California Norte State Tourism office told Patch that a passport is needed to enter Mexican waters.

"Yes absolutely, they are entering Mexican waters or territory and are required to comply with the immigration laws of Mexico," Martinez said.

He added that boaters in Mexican waters are required to accredit their legal stay in Mexico with a passport and that the Navy can request your passport and fishing permit when they perform a routine inspection.

That can be a problem for tuna fishermen as the fish move between Mexican and U.S. waters frequently. The bite may start in U.S. waters and then stray into Mexican waters.

Just be aware that if you cross over into Mexico, you are subject to Mexican laws, including a strict prohibition of carrying firearms or any ammunition.  

Martinez said that the Navy will be doing more inspections than ever as they attempt to put a stop to illicit drugs entering the United States by boat.  

Local fishermen's reactions ran the gamut—Patrick Norton of Garden Grove was upset. He said that it’s "another reason I will not go down south now."  

In a Facebook post, Will Ebersman wrote:

"Doesn't seem unreasonable. Some citizens in the U.S. get all bent out of shape over "illegal aliens" being in-country so why should we get upset if the Mexican people require that we carry some paperwork proving who we are when we're in their country? I'm just hoping it doesn't cut into my already scarce fishing time."

Passengers on sportboats are being impacted as well. Martinez said that even anglers on three-quarter trips to the Coronado Islands should carry a U.S. Passport.

"It's advisable because they [passengers] are in Mexican waters, and it's an official form of identification," he said.    

The Mexican government is working to create a balance so the Mexican Navy can control drug smuggling off the coast without scaring off fishing tourism, Martinez said.

"We are requesting an urgent meeting with the Admiral in charge of the Mexican Navy in Baja California for next week so we can address this important issue and the protocols of engagement so they can be as friendly as possible to our honored and distinguished guests," Martinez said.