CNMI nearshore reefs and lagoon (outside reserves)

Free-diving (breath-hold) spearfishing of finfish is legal on CNMI nearshore reefs, the Saipan lagoon and around Rota, Tinian and the other islands, provided it is outside any designated marine reserve/sanctuary and does not use SCUBA, hookah, explosives, poisons or electric shocking devices. No license is required for non-commercial finfish spearfishing. Nighttime free-dive spearfishing is the predominant local reef-fishing method and is not prohibited.

No SCUBA or hookah; no explosives/poisons/shocking devices; lobster may not be taken by spear; possession/sale of fish taken by prohibited means is illegal.