Director of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Mr. Theodore James has announced an updated closed seasons for lobsters, conchs, and whelks, and  is urging all fishers and stakeholders to adhere to these seasons.

Per the new notice, in accordance with Regulations 21(2)(d), 23(1)(b), and 24(1)(b) of the Fisheries Regulations, 2003, the updated closed seasons are as follows:

• Lobster (Panulirus argus): 31st July to 31st October 2024
• Conch (Strombus gigas): 15th August to 31st October 2024
• Whelk (Cittarium pica): 15th August to 31st  October 2024

Mr. James said that it is a legal requirement under Regulations 21(2)(d), 23(1)(b), and 24(1)(b) that no person shall fish for or remove lobster, conch, or whelk from the fishery waters during the respective closed seasons.

Regulation 26 of the Fisheries Regulations, 2003, states that the closed season for lobster is from  March 1 to  June 30, and conch and whelk from June 1 to September 30. A recent notice was issued to modify these dates only for 2024.

The director said, “By implementing closed seasons, we are safeguarding the future of our marine ecosystems and ensuring that generations to come can continue to benefit from the abundance of our seas. These regulations promote responsible fishing practices, prevent overfishing, and support long-term sustainability in our fisheries sector”.

Mr. James further stated that while the regulations previously restricted the sale and possession of lobster, conch, and whelk during closed seasons, amendments to the Regulations in 2011 focused on restricting fishers only, allowing supermarkets, restaurants, and other food establishments to sell and have these products in sustainable quantities to meet consumer demand.

He explained that the concept of closed seasons in fishing is crucial for the conservation and sustainable management of marine resources. Mr. James said, “Like ours, small island developing states rely heavily on fisheries for food security and economic livelihoods. Closed seasons help protect spawning populations during their reproductive cycles, allowing them to replenish and maintain healthy stock levels.”

The public is reminded of the importance of complying with the regulations to protect the marine resources for the benefit of present and future generations. For more information and details on the updated closed seasons and fisheries regulations, please refer to the official Statutory Instrument 2024, Number 28, gazetted on 30th May 2024, or visit the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Facebook page.