Felix Coffie
The Ministry for Fisheries and Aquaculture have announced the official implementation of the 2025 Closed Season for Ghana’s marine fishing fleet, as part of ongoing efforts to preserve and sustainably manage the country’s marine resources.
The annual Closed Season, a key component of Ghana’s national fisheries management strategy, is designed to allow depleted fish stocks to replenish, thereby safeguarding the future of the sector that contributes significantly to food security, employment, and economic development for millions of Ghanaians.
Timelines for the 2025 Closed Season
•Industrial trawlers:To observe a two-month closure from 1st July to 31st August 2025.
• Semi-industrial inshore vessels:
To observe a one-month closure from 1st to 31st July 2025.
These timelines are consistent with sustainable fishing practices and are intended to support the regeneration of Ghana’s marine ecosystems, particularly in heavily exploited zones.
Canoe Fishers Exempted, but Must Comply with Other Rules
Artisanal marine canoe fishers have been exempted from the 2025 Closed Season. However, they are still required to follow existing traditional and statutory regulations, including the observance of weekly fishing holidays typically Tuesdays or other locally designated rest days. These will continue to be enforced by the Fisheries Commission’s Regional Offices and the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
The Ministry strongly cautions all fishers, including canoe operators, against engaging in Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing practices. This includes:
• Light fishing
• Use of harmful chemicals or explosives
• Undersized fishing nets
Such practices threaten marine ecosystems, endanger public health, and undermine the livelihoods of coastal communities.
Enforcement and Penalties
The Fisheries Enforcement Unit (FEU), in collaboration with other regulatory bodies, will monitor compliance during the Closed Season. Strict penalties will be enforced on any individual or group found violating the directive.
The Ministry encourages stakeholders to report violations through designated channels to aid enforcement efforts and ensure accountability.
Scientific Collaboration and Long-Term Planning
MoFA and the Fisheries Commission are partnering with the scientific community to assess the biological, social, and economic impacts of the Closed Season. The findings will inform future fisheries policies and conservation programs.
Plans are also underway to introduce Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to enhance Ghana’s broader fisheries sustainability objectives.
Appeal to Stakeholders
The Ministry is calling on all actors in the fisheries value chain—including fisheries associations, chief fishermen, local authorities, and community leaders—to support this initiative by educating their members and ensuring compliance.
“We understand the sacrifices fishers must make during this period,” the Ministry stated, “but the long-term benefits will secure a healthier marine environment and a stronger future for our communities.”
