2025 closed fishing season dates announced
The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development has announced the dates for the 2025 Closed Fishing Season, a key government initiative aimed at restoring Ghana’s dwindling marine fish stock.
In a press release dated June 23, 2025, the Ministry revealed that industrial trawlers will be banned from fishing between July 1 and August 31, 2025, while semi-industrial inshore vessels will observe a one-month closure from July 1 to July 31.
The directive, issued in collaboration with the Fisheries Commission, forms part of national efforts to ensure the sustainability of Ghana’s fisheries industry, which supports millions of livelihoods and contributes significantly to the country’s food supply.
“These measures are in line with Ghana’s national fisheries strategy and global best practices aimed at the regeneration of fish stocks in our oceans,” the statement said.
While marine canoe fishers have been exempted from the closed season, the Ministry insists this does not free them from other fishing regulations.
They are required to respect traditional fishing holidays, such as the no-fishing Tuesdays, and to avoid illegal practices like light fishing, as well as the use of harmful chemicals and explosives.
“Undersized nets, explosives, light fishing, and all forms of IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing will not be tolerated,” the statement stressed.
The Fisheries Enforcement Unit (FEU), in collaboration with local and national authorities, will be on high alert during the season to crack down on violators.
The Ministry has warned that strict penalties will be imposed on individuals or groups that flout the rules.
It is also working with scientists and environmental experts to evaluate the long-term impacts of the closed season. Plans are underway to establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to further support Ghana’s fisheries sustainability goals.
Local assemblies, fisheries associations, and community leaders are being called upon to raise awareness and ensure compliance.
The Ministry believes that through collective responsibility and adherence to the rules, Ghana can secure a healthier, more resilient fisheries sector.
DR/MA
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