Three men have been cited for fishing violations at the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve (NAR) on May 27, 2024. The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) reported that the men were found in possession of a total of 78 different fish, some of which were under the legal size limits.
The specific charges include violations of HAR 13-209-4(14), which prohibits certain fishing gear within ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu, and HAR 13-209-4(1), which forbids the removal, injuring, or killing of marine life within the NAR. Additionally, they were charged with possessing ‘Opelu Kala under the legal-size limit of 16 inches as per HAR 13-95-12, and Moi less than the legal size limit of 11 inches according to HAR 13-95-23(a). They also violated HAR 13-95.1-21(a) by taking or possessing Uhu ‘ele‘ele or Uhu uliuli and HAR 13-95.1-21(d) by possessing more than two Uhu at any one time.
The men are scheduled to appear in Maui District Court on June 27 at 9:00 a.m.
The DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) oversees 23 NAR units across five islands. The system was established to preserve specific land and water areas supporting relatively unmodified communities of natural flora and fauna, as well as geological sites in Hawai‘i.
Anyone who witnesses suspected illegal activity at ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu or any other NAR is encouraged to share photos and narratives via the free DLNRTip app or by calling the DOCARE Hotline at 808-643-DLNR (3-5-6-7).