Hawai’i Moi Season Closed June 1

Moi, photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

The season for moi fishing closes this Friday, June 1, 2012, to allow populations to spawn during the critical summer months.

Under state law, it is unlawful to take, possess, or sell any moi during the months of 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 in a statement. “At one time it was reserved only for royalty. Today we still value it as one of our most sought-after reef fishes.”

DLNR officials not that 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 resources,” he said.

During the open season (September through May), the minimum catch size for moi is 11 inches, and the bag limit for possession and/or sale is 15 fish.

Commercial marine dealers 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).