LIHU’E — The state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced an open fishing season for rainbow trout in the Koke‘e Public Fishing Area on Kaua‘i, beginning June 19. Anglers may fish daily during the daylight hours between sunrise and
LIHU’E — The state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced an open fishing season for rainbow trout in the Koke‘e Public Fishing Area on Kaua‘i, beginning June 19.
Anglers may fish daily during the daylight hours between sunrise and sunset from June 19 to Sept. 30, a news release states.
“We are announcing the season opening early to allow fishers to make plans in advance,” said Laura Thielen, DLNR chairperson.
“Trout fishing at Pu‘u Lua Reservoir in Koke‘e has always been a popular family activity and anglers will have a chance to catch more than 15,000 stocked trout, which should weigh about one pound by opening day,” Thielen said.
Last year, 2,691 anglers caught 3,210 trout which averaged 11.8 inches in length and 13.2 ounces.
Anglers must have a valid State of Hawai‘i freshwater game fishing license. Licenses may be obtained at DLNR offices, at selected fishing supply stores, licensed agents, or purchased online at www.hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar.
The daily bag limit is seven rainbow trout per licensed angler. Anglers shall fish with only one pole and line, or with one line with one lure or one baited hook attached to one line. The use of treble hooks is prohibited.
The complete rules for fishing for rainbow trout at Koke‘e PFA can be found on the DLNR website listed above, or by calling any Division of Aquatic Resources office.
Anglers should be aware that a four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for driving to all main fishing areas, including Pu‘u Lua Reservoir, the streams and ditch systems.
All anglers are required to check in and out at established check-in stations as follows:
1) Pu‘u Lua Reservoir’s two stations at the parking area and at the reservoir intake while fishing at the Reservoir;
2) Koke‘e Park headquarters for the Koke‘e streams and ditch systems and access through Camp Ten and Halemanu Roads;
3) Trail 2 for the lower ditch systems.
For more information or the current list of license agents, call the DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources on O‘ahu at 832-5009, or on Kaua‘i at 274-3344.
