Annual rainbow trout season at Kōkeʻe, Kauaʻi opens June 15

Open season for rainbow trout will begin June 15, 2019 in the Kōke‘e Public Fishing Area (PFA) on Kaua‘i. Anglers may fish daily from June 15 to September 30, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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 the Puʻu Lua Reservoir, where anglers have chances to catch trout from last year’s stock.

Last year, 3,381 anglers caught 20,129 trout, with the largest one caught July 30 measuring 18.5 inches and weighing 3 pounds 4 ounces. Trout fishing is expected to be successful this year because 40,000 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 DLNR offices, at selected fishing supply stores, license agents, or purchased online.

The daily bag limit for this year will be 12 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. Dogs are prohibited around the reservoir bank for the safety and courtesy of other anglers.

Anglers are advised that four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended for driving to all fishing areas, including Pu‘u Lua reservoir, the streams, and ditch systems.

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.