THE SENATE	S.B. NO.	2973
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to fishing.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that Hawaii's marine life is fundamental to the cultural identity of the State and the health of its ocean environment. Marine species hold deep spiritual meaning for many communities, and the well-being of those communities reflects the balance and resilience of Hawaii's marine ecosystems. Protecting ocean life is critical to maintaining ocean ecosystems for the future.

The legislature further finds that jug line fishing and jug rig variant fishing methods are non-selective fishing practices that pose significant threats to marine life. These methods frequently result in the hooking, entanglement, or injury of non-target species, including sharks and protected green sea turtles, and present a severe risk to endangered species, such as the Hawaiian monk seal and hawksbill sea turtle.

The legislature further finds that jug lines often become marine debris when they are lost, cut, or otherwise left in the ocean. Once in the water, this gear can persist for years, continuing to pollute coastal and offshore areas, damage delicate coral reefs, and pose a serious threat to marine life through entanglement and injury long after it is no longer in use.

The legislature notes that, in September of 2025, the department of land and natural resources reported the death of RS34, a two-year old female Hawaiian monk seal known as Moana, which was caused by a jug rig variant fishing method. Wildlife officials determined that the use of heavy pound-test line and buoyant jugs significantly increased the risk of gear loss and entanglement, resulting in fatal consequences for the Hawaiian monk seal. This incident shows the unsustainable nature of jug line fishing and its impact on non-target marine life.

The legislature determines that the continued use of jug lines and jug rig variant fishing methods is incompatible with responsible resource management and the State's obligation to protect marine wildlife for present and future generations.

Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to prohibit jug line fishing and jug rig variant fishing methods in Hawaii's waters in order to reduce marine debris and strengthen protections for endangered species and the marine ecosystems upon which the State.

SECTION 2. Chapter 188, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to part II to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

"§188-   Jug line fishing; prohibited. (a) It is unlawful to possess or use on, in, or near state waters any fishing device or rig that makes use of buoyant jugs, bottles, or other flotation devices with the primary purpose of suspending a fishing line, hook, and weight.

(b) The possession or use of any of these devices on, in, or near the water where aquatic life can be taken, or aboard any fishing vessel or boat is prima facie evidence of a violation of this section."

SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.

SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2026.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

Jug Line Fishing; Jug Rig Variant Fishing Methods; Nonselective Fishing; Prohibition

Description:

Prohibits the use of jug line fishing and other jug rig variant fishing methods in state waters.

The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.