There’s been growing discussion about reopening fishing in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. But what would that really mean for Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument?
Reopening would not mean industrial-scale or foreign fishing. It would allow only Hawaii’s U.S.-flagged vessels—fewer than two dozen small boats—to fish under limited entry, strict regulation, and scientific oversight for species like opakapaka and onaga, which are central to island culture and food traditions.
Before the 2006 closure, this limited-entry fishery was among the best managed in the world, providing about 270,000 pounds of local bottomfish annually under NOAA and state inspection.
Protecting this special place and allowing responsible local fishing can go hand in hand. A well-managed, locally controlled fishery can strengthen both conservation and food sovereignty, while helping ensure that Hawaii’s people have dignified access to feed our communities with sustainably caught seafood.
— Alexander Min Waialae
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