The seasonal fishing ban on Kawakawa and Donu has entered its third month, with authorities reminding the public to comply with the annual closure aimed at protecting the species during their breeding season.

The nationwide ban, which runs from 1 June to 30 September, covers Kawakawa (Grouper) and Donu (Coral Trout) and is enforced under Regulation 4 of the Offshore Fisheries Management Regulation.

The closure is designed to allow the reef fish to breed, recover and replenish their populations, and is regarded as one of Fiji’s most successful fisheries management measures.

Authorities are urging fishing communities and the public to observe the ban and encourage others to do the same to help protect marine resources and support the long-term sustainability of the country’s fisheries.