Accra, June 24, 2025 — The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFA) and the Fisheries Commission have announced the enforcement of the 2025 Closed Fishing Season, a flagship policy aimed at restoring Ghana’s dwindling fish stocks and safeguarding the livelihoods of millions who depend on marine resources.
Per the directive:
- Industrial trawlers are barred from operating from July 1 to August 31, 2025.
- Semi-industrial inshore vessels are required to suspend fishing activities from July 1 to July 31, 2025.
The Closed Season initiative—first implemented in 2016—is designed to give fish populations the space and time to breed, thereby ensuring long-term ecological balance and food security.
Artisanal Fishers Exempt but Bound by Regulations
Artisanal canoe fishers have been exempted from the closed season, but the Fisheries Ministry insists this does not exempt them from other regulatory obligations.
Addressing the media in Accra, Fisheries Minister Emelia Arthur stated:
“Artisanal fishers must continue to observe traditional fishing holidays, including the weekly Tuesday break and any locally agreed rest days. These are part of our national efforts and will be enforced by the Fisheries Commission and MMDAs.”
She emphasized that customary rest practices play a critical role in marine regeneration and must not be flouted.
Strict Warning Against Illegal Fishing
Minister Arthur issued a strong caution against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, naming harmful practices such as:
- Light fishing
- Use of undersized mesh nets
- Application of toxic chemicals and explosives
“These harmful methods devastate marine ecosystems, endanger human health, and destabilize coastal economies. We will not tolerate them,” she warned.
Enforcement to Be Intensified
The Ministry announced that monitoring, surveillance, and enforcement operations would be heightened during the closure. Offenders caught violating the closed season or engaging in IUU fishing will face strict penalties.
Call for Collective Action
Madam Arthur appealed to fisheries associations, chief fishermen, and traditional authorities to support the successful implementation of the 2025 Closed Season.
“We urge national and regional executives of fisheries groups to help disseminate this directive within their communities. Successful implementation depends on our collective commitment,” she said.
The government says it remains committed to working closely with industry players, local communities, and development partners to build a sustainable and economically resilient fisheries sector.
The Closed Fishing Season continues to serve as a key conservation tool, promoting responsible fishing while protecting the future of Ghana’s marine ecosystems.
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