MEDIA RELEASE

HONOLULU— The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) reminds the public that the moi fishing season is closed beginning Wednesday, June 1, 2011. State regulations make it unlawful for any person to take, possess, or sell any moi during June, July, and August.

“Moi is one of Hawaii’s most significant fish species, from a cultural perspective,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson. “At one time it was reserved only for royalty. Today we still value it as one of our most sought-after reef fishes.”

“The closed season helps sustain moi populations by protecting them during the critical summer spawning period,” he continued.

The early Hawaiians also placed a kapu or prohibition on certain fish during their spawning season as a conservation measure.

“We ask for the fishing public’s help in complying with the closed season,” added Aila. “If we are to have fish for the future, we need to share the responsibility and take care of our ocean.”

During the open season – September through May –the minimum size for moi is 11 inches, and the bag limit for possession and/or sale is 15. However, a commercial marine dealer may possess and sell more than 15 moi during the open season with receipts issued for the purchase.

Copies of Hawai‘i’s fishing regulations are available at DLNR’s Aquatic Resources offices, most fishing supply stores, and online at http://hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar/regulations.html

To report fishing violations, call 643-DLNR (3567).