Some artisanal fishermen at Kokrobite in the Ga South Municipality of the Greater Accra Region have expressed relief and joy following their exemption from this year’s closed fishing season, which officially begins today, July 1.
The annual closed season, implemented by the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, is intended to replenish dwindling fish stocks along Ghana’s coast.
In past years, the restrictions affected all fishing activities, including artisanal, inshore, and industrial operations. However, for the 2025 season, artisanal fishermen have been exempted.
Speaking to Atinka News, several local fishermen shared how previous closures had negatively impacted their livelihoods.
Nii Amo, a local fisherman, said fishing is his sole source of income and that the seasonal ban placed a financial strain on his family, especially regarding his children’s education.
Others described experiencing hunger during the closure and questioned the effectiveness of the policy in improving fish yields.
Nii Adotei Akwei IV, Chief Fisherman of Kokrobite, welcomed the exemption but urged his colleagues to continue observing responsible fishing practices. He emphasized the need to avoid the use of illegal methods, such as lighting and unauthorized nets, which could undermine the goals of sustainable fishing.
According to the Ministry, this year’s closed season will run from July 1 to July 31 for inshore fleets, while industrial trawlers will remain inactive until August 31.
Artisanal fishers, however, will be allowed to operate throughout the period.
The decision to exempt artisanal fishing this year has been met with widespread approval from the Kokrobite fishing community.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Kwaku Sika
