PORTION OF WAIKIKI WILL OPEN TO FISHING JANUARY 1

At midnight on January 1, 2002, the waters off Waikiki Beach from the 'Ewa wall of the Natatorium east to the Diamond Head Lighthouse will re-open to fishing for one year. These waters make up the Waikiki-Diamond Head Shoreline Fisheries Management Area (FMA), where fishing is allowed during even-numbered calendar years only.

However, the adjacent waters to the immediate west of the the FMA -- from the 'Ewa wall of the Natatorium to the Kapahulu groin -- are NOT open to fishing at any time. These waters make up the the Waikiki Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) where fishing, possession of fishing gear, and removal of any type of marine life are illegal. A straight line going seaward along the 'Ewa wall of the Natatorium separates the area where fishing will be allowed this year from the area where it is always prohibited (see map). Persons caught fishing in the protected MLCD will be cited and can face fines of up to $1,000 per violation. Signs are posted at the MLCD.

Fishers are reminded that even in the FMA where fishing is allowed in 2002, certain restrictions apply. Gill netting is not allowed, nor is any other type of net or trap except throw nets. It is also illegal to use a spear between the hours of 6:00 p.m and 6:00 a.m. To avoid confusion, fishers are encouraged to obtain a copy of the Hawai`i Fishing Regulations. For more information call 587-0100.

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