Spearfishing using underwater breathing apparatus is illegal. Exceptions include compressors with a permit issued only to Bahamians only and used only between August 1 to March 31 and in water depths of 30 to 60 ft. Visitors may use an air compressor for observation purposes only and may not harvest any resources while using it. It is illegal to use any device other than a hawaiian sling for the discharge of a missile underwater. Foreign vessels intending to engage in sport fishing must have a permit and several rules apply under this permit.
Fishing gear is restricted to hook and line unless otherwise authorized.
Only 6 lines are allowed in the water at one time, unless otherwise authorized. The bag limit for Kingfish, Dolphin and Wahoo is a maximum combined total of 6 fish per person on the vessel, comprising any combination of these species. The posession of Turtle is prohibted. The above amounts may be exported by the vessel upon leaving The Bahamas. Such permission can only be issued to foreign states which have a fishery treaty with The Bahamas.