‘Ama’ama Fishing Season Closes in December

It is almost the close of ‘ama’ama, or striped mullet, season.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources issued a public reminder Monday that the close of the season is on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

“’Ama’ama are about to enter their peak spawning season, which increases their vulnerability to fishing pressure,” said Bruce Anderson, DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources administrator. “This annual winter closure is designed to help the fish reproduce successfully and protect the species from overfishing.”

Individuals who do not abide by the closed season could face criminal or civil penalties. Criminal penalties are a petty misdemeanor punishable by fine of up to $500 per violation and/or 30 days in jail. First offense civil penalties are up to $1,000 per specimen and $1,000 per violation.

“We ask the public’s compliance with the closed season,” said Anderson. “While it’s DLNR’s job to protect our marine resources, everyone shares in the responsibility to take care of important fish species like ‘ama‘ama to ensure their survival into the future.”

Open season will resume on March 31.

Hawai’i fishing regulations for ‘ama ‘ama and other marine species are available to Big Island residents at the DAR office or online at the DAR website.

Those who wish to report violations of fish catch size or net use should call the DLNR enforcement hotline at (808) 643-DLNR.