HONOLULU – A discussion on limiting the taking of certain near-shore fish species will travel to Lanai on March 5.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources will hold an informational meeting to discuss possible regulations for from 5-8 p.m. at the Lana'i Public Library.

The discussion will center on using minimum size rules to protect resource fish that may be at risk of being over harvested, and will focus on at least three main fish families that the DLNR feels may be in need of updated regulations. They are: parrotfish (uhu), goatfish (weke), and jacks (ulua/papio). The Division of Aquatic Resources has not yet drafted rule changes.

The Lana'i meeting is part of a continuing series of informational meetings being held statewide. Meetings have already been held on Maui, Kaua'i, Hawai'i and O'ahu. A meeting on Moloka'i will be announced soon.

"We are holding these public information meetings to listen to concerns and suggestions from the public regarding fishing and protection of these three species," said Laura H. Thielen, DLNR Chairperson. "The input we receive from the public will help the Division of Aquatic Resources design rules that will support the ongoing conservation of our marine resources while balancing the needs of recreational, subsistence and commercial fishers."

Recreational and subsistence fishers have developed a preference for the parrotfish family (also known as uhu), with many spearfishers considering them prized catches.

Commercial harvesting of uhu has also increased, with commercial fishers now supplying uhu to various markets throughout the state. Recent changes in uhu commercial harvesting using specialized and highly effective net- and trap-based fisheries operating in deeper water can remove large amounts of uhu.

These trends have resulted in increased concern over uhu stocks.