The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MoFA), in collaboration with the Fisheries Commission, has announced the implementation of the 2026 Closed Fishing Season for Ghana’s marine fishing fleet.
The directive, issued in line with the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), is aimed at allowing fish stocks to recover and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sector. Authorities say the measure is based on scientific advice and forms part of ongoing efforts to curb overfishing and rebuild depleted marine resources.
According to the schedule, industrial trawlers will observe a two-month closure from July 1 to August 31, 2026, while semi-industrial (inshore) vessels will halt operations for one month from July 1 to July 31. However, artisanal canoe fishers have been exempted from the closure to protect livelihoods, although they are expected to continue observing traditional fishing holidays and comply with existing regulations.
The Ministry has warned that enforcement will be intensified nationwide, with the Fisheries Enforcement Unit and other agencies set to carry out monitoring and surveillance operations across landing sites and fishing zones. Offenders risk facing sanctions under the law.
MoFA also reiterated its stance against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing practices, including the use of light, chemicals and explosives, describing them as a threat to marine sustainability and fisher livelihoods.
As part of broader conservation efforts, the Ministry indicated that additional measures, including the establishment of Marine Protected Areas, will complement the closed season policy. Ghana’s first such area, located at the Greater Cape Three Points, is expected to be officially declared in April 2026.
The Ministry is calling on fisher associations, traditional leaders and local authorities to support the implementation of the directive to ensure compliance and promote sustainable fisheries management.