Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, May 12: The Goa government has officially announced its annual fishing ban, which will be in effect from June 1 to July 31, 2025, across the state’s coastal and territorial waters. This two-month restriction is aimed at conserving marine biodiversity during the crucial fish breeding season.

As per the Goa Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1980, the ban specifically targets fishing vessels that use mechanical propulsion systems, including trawl nets and purse seine nets—both known for their high-impact fishing techniques.

However, the government has provided an exemption for registered motorised canoes equipped with outboard or inboard motors of up to 10 horsepower (HP). These canoes are allowed to operate during the ban period only if they use gill nets for fishing.

“The Government of Goa, having regard to the need to conserve fish, hereby prohibits fishing by fishing vessels fitted with mechanical means of propulsion and by means of trawl net and purse-seine net, except fishing by registered motorised canoes using gill nets only,” said Director of Fisheries Yashasvini B in the official notification.

The annual monsoon fishing ban is a key measure to support sustainable fishing practices and ensure the long-term health of marine ecosystems along the Goan coast.