HONOLULU (10 June 2025) The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council (WPRFMC) hosted a lively and thought-provoking Fishers Forum last night, June 9, at the Ala Moana Hotel. Titled “From Hanapa‘a to How Much? What It Takes to Fish and Sell in Hawai‘i,” the event brought together commercial fishers, seafood marketers and community members to discuss the evolving and often difficult realities of commercial fishing in the islands.

Panelists shared raw and honest insights about the economic, regulatory and cultural challenges facing Hawai‘i’s fishing community, especially as traditional knowledge erodes and entry into the profession becomes increasingly inaccessible.

“In the ’80s and ’90s, fishing was big,” said long-time fisherman Abe Apilado and WPRFMC Hawai‘i Advisory Panel member. “Now, fishermen are hardly recognized for their contributions. There’s a loss of fishing knowledge and community representation.” He noted “akule used to be king—today we leave fish in the water because no more market.”

He pointed to the growing burden of regulations, rising costs and reduced access to traditional fishing grounds such as the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. He also stressed the strong work ethic required to commercially fish, considering today’s economic challenges.

“You have to be comfortable with failing in this life,” he said. “Fishing goes up and down like the stock market, but one good trip might make up for a week of losses.”

Apilado urged the community to invest in youth, remove the stigma from underappreciated fish species, and revive the tradition of fishing as a way to nourish—not just supply—our communities.

Kapili Kalahiki-Anthony, a former NOAA Fisheries observer and founder of Native Hawaiian Trading Co., is a vocal advocate for community-based fisheries. He highlighted the entrepreneurial and cultural aspects of modern-day fishing. He credits Hawai‘i’s legendary fisherman, Leo Ohai, who taught him the importance of knowing all fishing methods and having the experience to recognize when to target seasonal fisheries.

“You can’t just fish—you have to market yourself, use social media,” he explained. “It’s not just about money, but we do have to pay the bills. The key is to light that spark—to show the kids what we do and connect the dots.”

Kalahiki-Anthony discussed the importance of indigenous knowledge and innovation in revitalizing Hawaiian fisheries. Through his nonprofit, he is working to provide vocational training and mentorship, hoping to build a future where Hawai‘i’s youth see fishing as both a viable career and a cultural calling.

“Fish trapping is a lost art,” he added. “We need to create the space and the pride for it to come back.”

From the business side of the industry, Josh Schade of Ahi Assassins, a member of the WPRFMC Fishing Industry Advisory Committee, addressed market dynamics and the discontent many fishers feel when they see their catch sell for far more than they’re paid.

“It’s easy to say it’s unfair,” said Schade, “but between the boat and the plate, there’s a whole network of people working hard to get that fish to the customer. If we clarify what happens behind the curtain, we can resolve a lot of the frustration in our community.”

Schade’s response to the question about the most important message he would share with someone wanting to become a commercial fisherman was: “Show respect for each other, family and community.”

The forum drew a diverse audience, reflecting a shared concern for Hawai‘i’s food security, cultural heritage and economic resilience. A recurring message throughout the night was that supporting local fishers means more than buying local—it means acknowledging the mana‘o (knowledge), effort and heart that sustains the practice.

The Fishers Forum was part of the WPRFMC’s 203rd Council meeting week, which brings together community members to discuss fisheries management in the Western Pacific region. 

Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council: Secretary of Commerce appointees from nominees selected by American Samoa, the CNMI, Guam and Hawai‘i governors: Will Sword, noncommercial fisherman/engineer (American Samoa) (chair); Roger Dang, Fresh Island Fish Co. (Hawai‘i) (vice chair); Judith Guthertz, University of Guam (Guam) (vice chair); Pete Itibus, noncommercial fisher (CNMI); Shaelene Kamaka‘ala, Hawaiian Islands Land Trust (Hawai‘i); Frank Perez, AC Sales and Service, (Guam); Matt Ramsey, Conservation International (Hawai‘i); and Gene Weaver, Tasi to Table (CNMI). Designated state officials: Dawn Chang, Hawai‘i Dept. of Land & Natural Resources; Sylvan Igisomar, CNMI Dept. of Lands & Natural Resources (vice chair); Chelsa Muña, Guam Dept. of Agriculture; and Archie Soliai, American Samoa Government (vice chair). Designated federal officials (voting): Sarah Malloy, NMFS Pacific Islands Regional Office. Designated federal officials (nonvoting): Colin Brinkman, U.S. State Dept.; Jeremy Raynal, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service; and RADM Sean Regan, U.S. Coast Guard 14th District.