DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES

News Release

LINDA LINGLE

GOVERNOR

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LAURA H. THIELEN, CHAIRPERSON

Phone: (808) 587-0401

Fax: (808) 587-0390

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For Immediate Release: December 28, 2007

Ocean Etiquette Urged As Waikiki-Diamond Head
Shoreline Fisheries Management Area Reopens In 2008

HONOLULU -- The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) is reminding recreational users of the shoreline and nearshore waters between the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium and the Diamond Head Lighthouse to be considerate of other users.

“The shoreline and nearshore waters between the Natatorium and the Diamond Head Lighthouse are very popular with residents and visitors,” said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR chairperson.

“Swimmers, surfers, divers, paddlers and boaters and beachgoers need to be aware that other people will be fishing in the area in 2008. These waters have been managed for public fishing since 1978, and fishermen have a right to enjoy their activity,” Thielen said.

“Likewise, fishers are reminded that non-fishers will frequent and use the area, too. We urge them to use caution while fishing, to keep swimmers, surfers and others safe also,” she said.

The Waikiki-Diamond Head fisheries management area opens to fishing in alternate years. In 2008 fishing will be allowed for one year beginning January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008. The area will close to fishing in 2009.

The fishery management area extends 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.

Permitted fishing methods include pole-and-line, thrownet, spear (daylight hours only, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.), and hand harvest. Anyone who violates the provisions of this rule shall be guilty of a petty misdemeanor, and upon conviction, shall be punished as provided by law.

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

Copies of the administrative rule, Chapter 13-48 are available at the Division of Aquatic Resources office, 1151 Punchbowl Street, Rm. 330, in the Hawai‘i Fishing Regulations booklet (available at most sporting goods stores), or on the DAR website: www.hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar.

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For more information news media may contact:
Deborah Ward
DLNR Public information specialist
Phone: (808) 587-0320