Lobster and Kona Crab Season Closes May 1

Male and female Kona Crab. DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources photo.

The closed season for ula (spiny lobster), ula papapa (slipper lobster) and Kona crab runs from May 1 through the end of August. During that time it’s illegal to take, possess or sell these shellfish.

“These rules are in place to protect lobsters and Kona crabs during the summer months, which are the peak of their reproductive season, and to help ensure their populations will continue to be sustainable,” said Suzanne Case, chairperson of the Department of Land and Natural Resources,

However, any commercial marine dealer may sell, or any hotel, restaurant or other public eating house may serve spiny or slipper lobster lawfully caught during the open season by first obtaining a license to do so, pursuant to section 13-74-41, Hawaii Administrative Rules.

During the open season catching, taking or possessing female spiny and slipper lobsters, and female Kona crab is prohibited. Also, any spiny or slipper lobster, or Kona crab caught with eggs must immediately be returned to the waters from which it was taken. Taking or killing of females is prohibited year-round.

The Hawai‘i Fishing Regulations booklet, available at all Division of Aquatic Resources offices and most fishing supply stores, shows how to determine the sex of spiny lobsters and Kona
crabs.

The information can also be found online.

For more information on regulations concerning these and other marine invertebrates, including
minimum sizes, go online or call the Hawai‘i Division of Aquatic Resources at(808) 587-0100.

To report any violation of these or other fishing regulations call the Division of Conservation and
Resources Enforcement at (808) 643-DLNR (3567).