For Immediate Release: May 27 , 2005

Closed Season for Moi Begins June 1

"Moi is one of Hawaii's most significant fish species, from a cultural perspective," said DLNR Chairperson Peter Young. "At one time it was reserved only for royalty. Today we continue to value it as one of our most sought-after reef fishes."

“In recent years, the competitive uses of shoreline areas coupled with increased fishing pressure have resulted in a decrease in moi catch by local fishermen. The closed season helps sustain its populations by protecting it during the critical summer spawning season,” Young added.

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

DLNR’s stock enhancement program is also helping to address this problem. Season, size and bag restrictions are also helping to protect this species from over harvest, as are the research efforts by DLNR’s Anuenue Fisheries Research Center (AFRC). Over the past nine years, DLNR has been spawning and mass culturing the moi.

Copies of Hawai‘i's fishing regulations are available at DLNR's Aquatic Resources offices, and at most fishing supply stores.

To report fishing violations, call 587-0077 on O‘ahu. Neighbor island residents can call toll free by dialing the operator and asking for "Enterprise 5469."