| Many of today’s
fishers are concerned about the steep declines they’ve seen
in our fish populations. A Fair Catch poll shows that 65% of recreational
fishers in Hawai‘i believe overfishing is a serious problem
here. Following are a few examples of how local fishers are trying
to change that by making fair catches.
Free-dive, or Breath-hold, Spear
Fishing
From Cal Hirai, recreational fisherman
A lot of people go for the big, trophy-size fish, but I know those
fish are important for replenishing the sea. So I look for fish
in the middle range – not too small, and not too big. I only
take a few fish at a time, just what I’m going to eat with
family or friends, and that way I know there will be some tomorrow.
Hand Line
From Bruce Blankenfeld, recreational fisherman
My favorite way to fish has always been by hand line because there’s
nothing more natural than feeling the tug of the line and pulling
it up with your bare hands. You can target the exact type of fish
you want, and since it takes only one fish at a time, it’s
not wasteful. It’s a good way to make sure you’re taking
just what you need.
Pole and Line
From Dwight Matsuwaki, recreational fisherman
If I catch something that I know I will eat, I will take it home,
but otherwise I practice catch and release. I don’t want to
waste. I am conscious about my impact on the reef, so I try to avoid
walking on it whenever possible. I want the ocean to be healthy
for my son and provide the same kind of enjoyment that I had while
growing up.
Send
your thoughts on responsible fishing in Hawai‘i to
info@faircatchhawaii.org
|
