Pro Fishing Tips

PIFG produced 10 videos to “Enhance next-generation fishermen engagement in Pacific Islands small boat pelagic and bottomfish fisheries, conservation and management”. These videos provide fishers basic “how to” information on proper methods, gear and fishing etiquette needed to be successful in bottomfish and pelagic fisheries. You can find these videos posted on PIFG social media (Facebook, PIFG -YouTube Channel, etc.) and local network. The videos are titled “Pro Fishing Tips” by Pacific Islands Fisheries Group.

You Can View more PIFG Videos here: LINK

Development, promotion and marketing of locally caught Alfonsin in Hawaii's seafood market and restaurants

This project aims to benefit Hawaii's economy by introducing the underutilized deep slope fish species, Alfonsin, to the local market. This initiative supports both the fishing industry and the broader community by reducing reliance on foreign seafood imports. Through collaboration with seafood distributors and restaurants, the project evaluates the quality of locally caught Alfonsin compared to imported varieties, focusing on factors like freshness and texture. The project engages local fishermen to target Alfonsin, map potential habitats, and contribute to its sustainable harvesting. Initial testing shows promising results, with locally caught Alfonsin demonstrating qualities suitable for high-value products like sashimi. The project's ongoing efforts seek to establish Alfonsin as a sought-after local seafood option and reduce Hawaii's dependence on imports.

Main Hawaiian Islands “How To Catch Squid” Project

This project promotes the development of Hawaii’s fresh squid fishery. Locally caught ika are promoted to fishermen as an alternative source of fresh bait instead of imported frozen bait. Fresh local ika is also provided to restaurants as high quality, locally sourced, seafood. Fishermen are informed about potential opportunities for catching, consuming and selling local ika. Increased understanding of the species, gear, method, timing, cost and uses allow fishermen to determine entry costs into the fishery. Information on product handling ensures delivery of the freshest and highest quality product to Hawaii’s fresh “sashimi-grade” fish market. Restaurant & seafood companies are able to test locally caught squid without cost.

Development of Mariana Islands Ika and Monchong Fishery

The Marianas Exploratory Squid Project was conducted with fishers from Guam and CNMI. Fishermen and observers targeted pelagic squid species on dark moon nights and collected much needed fishery and environmental information. Working with the Guam Pacific Island Fisheries Science Center Representative and Guam Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources staff, fishermen were able to turn squid over to further document the life history of these species. The project promoted the development of a squid fishery in the Marianas and worked with local fishers, restaurants and hotels to promote the use of fresh locally caught squid over frozen imported products.