A boater faces a hefty fine for a serious fishing violation. Konane Zager, operating the Waiaka, was caught breaking longline fishing laws off Hawaii Island's Kona coast on May 7, 2025. The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement (DOCARE) officers witnessed a violation of epic proportions. Zager's longline gear stretched an astonishing 3.69 nautical miles, more than three times the legal limit of one nautical mile. This wasn't just a minor infraction. Zager had the audacity to haul in three yellowfin tuna, selling two to a local fish buyer and releasing the third back into the ocean, alive. It's clear Zager knew the rules and deliberately broke them. The DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) recommended a maximum fine of $10,051.90, which includes:
- $1,000 for the first-offense violation of longline fishing within state waters
- $3,000 ($1,000 per ahi taken/injured)
- $6,051.90 in DLNR administrative costs for investigation and enforcement
The Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) unanimously agreed, imposing the fine and revoking Zager's commercial marine license for a year. He's now barred from applying for a new license until after the revocation period ends. This isn't just about the money. The DLNR is sending a clear message about the seriousness of these violations. All investigative materials have been handed over to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Law Enforcement for further investigation. The funds will be deposited into the Commercial Fisheries Special Fund, supporting the management and conservation of Hawaii's aquatic resources used for commercial purposes. This case highlights the importance of adhering to fishing regulations to protect our precious marine ecosystems.
