Hawaii state government is extending its own kapu over the taking of moi, running from June 1 until August.
Hawaii state government is extending its own kapu over the taking of moi, running from June 1 until August.
The fish, also known as Pacific threadfin, are entering their summer spawning period.
“Moi is one of Hawaii’s most significant fish species, from a cultural perspective,” wrote Suzanne Case, chairperson of the Department of Land and Natural Resources in a press release. “In ancient times it was reserved only for chiefs; commoners were forbidden to eat it. But if moi suddenly appeared in large numbers, chiefs considered it an omen of disaster.”
“Today we still value it as one of our most sought-after reef fishes,” she continued. “The closed season helps sustain moi populations by protecting them during their critical summer spawning period. We ask for the fishing public’s kokua in complying with the closed season, and protecting our ocean resources.”
Early Hawaiians also placed a kapu or prohibition on certain fish during their spawning season as a conservation measure.
During the open season – September through May – the minimum size for moi is 11 inches, and the bag limit for possession and/or sale is 15. However, a commercial marine dealer may possess and sell more than 15 moi during the open season with receipts issued for the purchase.