Is it time for conch ceviche? Conch soup? Or how about conch fritters?
Yes. Conch season officially opens in two days.
The Belize Fisheries Department says the Queen Conch season runs from October 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. However, if fishers hit the national production quota before then, the Department will close the season early.
Until Wednesday, taking, buying, selling or possessing conch remains illegal under Belize’s fisheries regulations.
Once the season opens, size and weight limits apply. A conch shell must measure more than 7 inches (17.8 centimetres). The meat must also meet minimum weight requirements:
- Unprocessed conch must weigh more than 7½ ounces (213 grams).
- Market-clean conch must weigh more than 3 ounces (85 grams).
- Fillet must weigh more than 2¾ ounces (78 grams).
Anything at or below those limits is illegal to take, buy, sell or possess.
Diced conch comes with its own restriction. No person or business can buy, sell or hold diced conch meat without a special permit from the Fisheries Administrator. That rule applies directly to restaurants and vendors.
Exporters are also prohibited from shipping more conch than the quota granted under the Fisheries Resources Act.
The Fisheries Department is asking the public to report illegal fishing.
