The Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission has posted its 2008 Open Waters Schedule and registration information at its Web site, http://kahoolawe.hawaii.gov.

Although access to Kaho'olawe and reserve waters is restricted due to the presence of unexploded ordnance, the commission provides "open waters" access on two weekends each month for trolling only. State law requires vessels to register annually with the commission before entering the reserve to fish during designated dates. Fishermen also are required to submit catch reports to the commission after each entry.

The Kaho'olawe Island Reserve is defined as the submerged lands and waters within two nautical miles of the island. Only trolling is permitted during the open weekends to minimize the impact on fish stocks.

To register or for more information, contact Dean Tokishi at 243-5889 or e-mail dtokishi@kirc.gov. Registration packets also are available at state Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation offices.

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