Closed Season Starts on ‘Ama ‘Ama Striped Mullet

File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Maui Now Staff

The Department of Land and Natural Resources reminds the public that fishing season for ‘ama‘ama, or striped mullet, will be closed from December 1, 2012 through March 31, 2013.

The ‘ama‘ama are entering their peak spawning season and the winter closure is designed to protect the species from overfishing.

DLNR Chairperson, William J. Aila, Jr., notes that the spawning season increases the species’ vulnerability to fishing pressure.

Violations of the size or season restrictions can result in fines of up to $500 and/or 30 days in jail, plus up to $100 for each fish taken.

“We ask the public’s kokua in complying with the closed season,” Aila said. “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.”

Copies of statewide fishing regulations for ‘ama‘ama and all other marine species are available in Honolulu at the DLNR-Aquatics office, 1151 Punchbowl St., Room 330, and at all neighbor island DLNR-Aquatics offices.

Fishing regulations can also be found at hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar.

To report fish catch size or net violations, call (808) 643-DLNR (643-3567).