A theft of thousands of fish has left Hawaii taxpayers on the hook. 

State officials reported a theft of about 3,000 rainbow trout on Kauai destined to be available for trout season on June 16.

Officials said despite the theft, they still have enough to expect a good season — minus the 3,000 fish.

Kauai police received a report that individuals were observed near the floating pens at the Pu`u Lua Reservoir in Koke`e, the state said.

There was also damage to the pens.

"We are very concerned about this action, which harms the opportunity for many Kaua’i and Hawai’i families who look forward to the opening of Koke’e trout fishing on June 16," said William Aila Jr., chairperson of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. 

"The Department encourages the public to comply with state regulations and to stop from damaging valuable equipment used in the rearing of the trout."

Anyone who observes suspicious activity at the reservoir, or may have seen someone in or around the reservoir in March, is asked to contact the Kaua’i Police Department or the state Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement (DOCARE) on Kaua’i at 274-3521.