United States Virgin Islands · Spearfishing zone
USVI Territorial waters (general)
What this zone is
Overview
How spearfishing is treated at USVI Territorial waters (general).
Territorial waters extend from shore to 3 nautical miles offshore. Recreational spearfishing is permitted here except inside the National Park Service units, designated marine reserves/sanctuaries, and the St. Croix East End Marine Park no-take and recreational zones. Spear/hooks may not be used for lobster, and SCUBA/hookah may not be used to harvest marine resources.
What applies here
Restrictions
Specific rules and limits that apply within this area.
No spearing of lobster; no SCUBA/hookah harvesting; no take of protected species; species seasonal closures and size limits apply; recreational license required (enforced from mid-2026).
Source
This zone is documented in the official source below.
Before you dive
License for United States Virgin Islands
Whether you need a license to spearfish here, and how to get one.
Recreational licenses obtained online via GoOutdoors USVI (www.gooutdoorsusvi.com). Recreational licensing rules were signed October 7, 2022; enforcement scheduled to begin mid-2026. Commercial licenses via DPNR Division of Fish & Wildlife limited-entry application.
Get your licenseOpens the official portal · dpnr.vi.gov