DLNR to close Waikiki-Diamond Head fishing area for one year

In an effort to allow fish population to replenish, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources is closing of the Waikiki-Diamond Head Shoreline Fisheries Management Area for one year, beginning Jan. 1.

In a news release issued Wednesday, DLNR chairperson William J. Aila, Jr., said, "Periodically closing areas to fishing was a practice used by early Hawaiians; it helped fish populations replenish themselves." He added, "We use a variation of that at Waikiki-Diamond Head for the same purpose. Closed years give fish a break from fishing pressure, and allow their populations to increase. Fishing experiences are then improved during open years."

 The Waikiki-Diamond Head fisheries management area includes the nearshore waters between the ‘Ewa wall of the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium and the Diamond Head Lighthouse, from the high-water mark on shore to a minimum seaward distance of 500 yards, or to the edge of the fringing reef if one occurs beyond 500 yards.

During the "closed to fishing" period, fishing is banned as is taking or injuring any marine life (including eggs). In addition, "possessing in the water any fishing gear" is prohibited. 

Fishing is also not allowed at any time in the adjoining Waikiki Marine Life Conservation District between the ‘Ewa edge of the Natatorium and the ‘Ewa edge of the Kapahulu groin (seawall). 

Anyone who violates the provisions of this rule may be guilty of a petty misdemeanor, and /or subject to an administrative fine.