Division of Aquatic Resources

Open season for rainbow trout will begin June 18, 2022 in the Kōke‘e Public Fishing Area (PFA) on Kaua‘i. Anglers may fish daily from June 18 to September 30, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The governor’s emergency public health proclamation has ended, so there will be no lottery this year.

Trout are found in streams and ditch systems within the PFA, but fishing success has been poor there due to discontinuation of stream stocking some years ago. Over 95% of the catch now occurs from Puʻu Lua Reservoir, where the stocking program continues.

Last year, 2,724 anglers caught 9,732 trout, with the largest one caught June 29th measuring 19¼ inches and weighing 3 pounds 14 ounces. Trout fishing is expected to be successful this year because 50,000 young trout were stocked in the reservoir.

Anglers must have a valid State of Hawai‘i freshwater game fishing license. Licenses may be obtained at DAR offices,  selected fishing supply stores, license agents, or purchased online.

The daily bag limit for this year will be 10 rainbow trout per licensed angler. Catch-and-release fishing is prohibited; all trout caught must be retained by the angler and count towards their bag limit. Each angler may fish with only one line, with one single barbed hook (lure or baited). Use of treble hooks is prohibited. The launch or use of any vessel or floatable object, motorized, non-motorized, or wind-powered in Pu‘u Reservoir is prohibited. No camping is permitted in the vicinity of the reservoir, and open fires are strictly prohibited due to risk of fire hazard. Puʻu Lua reservoir is located within Hunting Unit J, therefore dogs are strictly prohibited, even if on leash. This is also for the courtesy and safety of fishers at the reservoir.

Anglers are advised that four-wheel-drive vehicles are highly recommended for driving to all fishing areas, including Pu‘u Lua reservoir, the streams, and ditch systems. Road conditions quickly degrade with increased vehicle traffic during trout season. Coming out is generally more difficult than going in. The reservoir is located on Haʻeleʻele Ridge Road, 3/4 mi from the turnoff at Mile Marker 12.

All anglers are required to check in and out at established check-in stations as follows:

• Pu‘u Lua Reservoir’s two stations at the parking area and at the reservoir intake.
• Koke‘e Park headquarters for streams and the upper ditch systems with access through Camp 10 and Halemanu Roads.
• Trail 2 for the lower ditch systems. Due to road hazards and conditions, vehicle access to the lower ditch systems is prohibited. Access by walk-in only.