The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFA), and the Fisheries Commission, have announced the enforcement of the 2025 Closed Fishing Season, a key policy intervention aimed at restoring Ghana’s declining fish stocks and ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine resources.
All industrial trawlers are required to suspend operations for two months, from July 1 to August 31, 2025.
Semi-Industrial Inshore Vessels will observe a one-month closure, from July 1 to July 31, 2025.
This annual initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to promote responsible fishing, protect marine biodiversity, and secure the livelihoods of millions who depend on fisheries for food and income.
Artisanal Canoe Fishers Exempt but Must Comply with Regulations
In a media briefing, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, clarified that artisanal canoe fishers are exempt from the 2025 Closed Season. However, she emphasized that this exemption does not mean a free pass from other critical regulations.
“Artisanal fishers must continue to observe traditional fishing holidays—such as the Tuesday break, or any locally agreed rest days—as mandated by customary practices. These will be enforced under the oversight of the Fisheries Commission’s Regional Offices and the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs),” she noted.
The Minister strongly warned against Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing practices, such as: Light fishing, Use of undersized mesh nets, Application of toxic chemicals and explosives.
“These harmful methods not only devastate marine ecosystems but also pose serious health risks and undermine the economic stability of coastal communities,” she added.
The Ministry has stated that strict penalties will be imposed on any individual or group caught violating the Closed Season or engaging in IUU fishing. Monitoring, surveillance, and enforcement operations will be heightened throughout the closure period to ensure full compliance.
Madam Emelia Arthur appealed to all stakeholders in the fisheries value chain to lend their full support to the 2025 Closed Season initiative.
“We call on all national and regional executives of fisheries associations, chief fishermen, and local leaders to help disseminate this directive to their members and communities. Successful implementation depends on shared responsibility and commitment,” she urged.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with industry players, coastal communities, traditional authorities, and development partners to ensure a healthy, resilient, and economically viable marine sector for future generations.
The Closed Season is an annual conservation policy introduced in Ghana to allow fish species time to breed and replenish. It was first implemented in 2016 and continues to be a cornerstone of sustainable fisheries management in the country.
