Rule Changes Proposed for Hilo’s Waiakea Pond

The state is proposing to prohibit the use of stand-up paddleboards in Hilo’s Waiakea Pond.

That is one of several proposed changes to rules for fishing and other activities at the Waiakea Public Fishing Area at Wailoa River State Park.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will hold a public meeting on the rule changes at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, in Suite 1 of the Aupuni Center at 101 Pauahi St.

Swimming and water skiing are already prohibited in the pond.

People fishing in Waiakea Pond on Friday. Photo by Dave Smith.

Other proposed changes would limit boat fishing to stationary, anchored boats, and ban the possession or use of any net in the public fishing area.

“These changes will help to maintain the focus on active pole and line fishing for which this area was designated,” said William J. Aila Jr., chairman of the DLNR.

Other amendments include the updating of provisions on the mullet closed season and the taking of female Samoan crabs to be consistent with existing regulations.

The draft rules can be reviewed here or at Department of Aquatic Resources offices.

Written testimony on the proposed rules can be sent by Friday, Nov. 8, 2013, to the Division of Aquatic Resources, 75 Aupuni St., Room 204, Hilo, Hawaii 96720.