MINISTRY OF FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE AND THE FISHERIES COMMISSION HAVE ANNOUNCED 2026 CLOSED FISHING SEASON FOR THE MARINE FISHING FLEET.
Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Hon, Emelia Arthur
Announcing the closed season on Tuesday at the Tema Canoe Fishing Basin, the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Hon, Emelia Arthur announced that Industrial trawlers will observe a two-month closed season from 1st July to 31st August 2026 whilst Semi-industrial (inshore) vessels will observe a one-month closure from 1st to 31st July 2026.
She emphasized that this measure which is in accordance with Section 47 of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), is grounded in scientific advice and aligned with national and international best practices aimed at the recovery, replenishment, and sustainable management of Ghana’s marine fish stocks.
“The Closed Fishing Season remains a central fisheries management tool under Government’s efforts to rebuild depleted stocks and safeguard the long-term sustainability of the marine fisheries sector for current and future generations. Over the years, its implementation has contributed to reducing fishing pressure and supporting stock recovery”, the Minister stressed.
The Shama Member of Parliament however stressed that Marine artisanal canoe fishers are exempted from the 2026 Closed Fishing Season adding that this exemption is intended to protect livelihoods artisanal fishing communities whose livelihoods depends on solely on fishing and related activities while ensuring an inclusive and balanced approach to fisheries management.
She explained further that the exemption however does not preclude compliance with existing fisheries regulations and traditional management practices.
“All marine artisanal fishers are required to continue observing designated fishing holidays as determined by their respective communities, as part of community-based fisheries management systems”, Hon. Arthur said.
Below is the other part of the statement read by the Minister
The Ministry further emphasizes that strict adherence to the law remains mandatory. All fishers must refrain from illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices, including light fishing, and the use of harmful chemicals, explosives, and other destructive methods. Such practices undermine conservation efforts, deplete fish stocks, and ultimately threaten the sustainability of livelihoods within the sector.
- The Ministry underscores that enforcement of the 2026 Closed Fishing Season will be significantly intensified to ensure full compliance. The Fisheries Enforcement Unit (FEU), in close collaboration with other state agencies, will undertake coordinated monitoring, control, and surveillance operations across all landing sites and fishing zones nationwide.
- Strict enforcement actions will be applied, and any individual or vessel found in violation of the closure will face sanctions in accordance with the provisions of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146). To reinforce compliance, the Ministry will continue to work closely with Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), traditional authorities, and fisher associations to strengthen awareness, promote voluntary compliance, and foster community ownership of fisheries management measures.
- The Ministry, in collaboration with the scientific community, will continue to assess the biological, social, and economic impacts of the Closed Fishing Season to ensure that fisheries policies remain evidence-based, adaptive, and effective.
- As part of broader efforts to enhance marine conservation, additional measures, including the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), will be implemented to complement the Closed Fishing Season. Notably, Ghana’s first MPA at the Greater Cape Three Points Area is scheduled to be officially declared on 14th April 2026, marking a significant milestone in the country’s fisheries management and conservation agenda.
- The Ministry calls on national and regional executives of fisheries associations, as well as chief fishermen, to actively support the implementation of this year’s Closed Season by disseminating this directive and promoting understanding and cooperation among their members. We appreciate the continued cooperation of all stakeholders and look forward to working together to ensure that Ghana’s fisheries sector remains strong, sustainable, and economically viable for generations to come.
- For further clarification contact the Executive Director of the Fisheries Commission, Prof. Benjamin Campion on 024-777-6666 and email benjamin.campion@fishcom.gov.gh
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Issued by:
Public Relations Unit
Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture
