Illegal net fishing inquiry nears close

by Nick Delgado

Guam - An independent investigation by the Port Authority involving illegal net-fishing at Hagatna Marina will be completed this week, according to Port General Manager Pedro Leon Guerrero. A fisherman was caught in November net fishing prompting the agency to put out monthly notices that the activity is not allowed.

Port Police confirm they receive anonymous calls almost everyday about the activity ongoing. Over the weekend, authorities kept a close watch for the reported illegal activity, but found nothing.

Local fisherman Gerry Taitano agrees with the enforcement, saying, "Disallowing net fishing especially here will allow anglers to have more fun, come down and catch more fish. You notice the Atulai this particular season has been here longer than in prior years and that can be attributed to the restrictions on net fishing."

Port Police admit they suffer from a lack of manpower to provide around the clock checks of illegal net fishing at the Hagatna and Agat marinas. You can learn more about the restrictions on PortGuam.com.