The stretch of shoreline from the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium to the Diamond Head Lighthouse will open to fishing starting today — probably to a large crowd — and the state is asking users of the fishing area to be considerate of others in the water, including swimmers.

"We urge them to use caution while fishing, to keep swimmers, surfers and others safe," said Laura H. Thielen, state Department of Land and Natural Resources chairwoman.

Also, she added, "swimmers, surfers, divers, paddlers, boaters and beachgoers need to be aware that other people will be ... in the area. Fishermen have a right to enjoy their activity."

The stretch will be open to fishing until Dec. 31. Fishing, including pole-and-line, throw-net, spear (during daylight hours) and hand harvest, is allowed in the Waikiki-Diamond Head fisheries management area in alternate years.

The area will close to fishing on Jan. 1, 2009.

Brad Marumoto, an avid diver and fisherman, said the shoreline will be crowded with fishermen during the first few days of 2008. One of the most popular fishing and diving spots is near the Natatorium at Kaimana Beach, Marumoto said.

"It's going to be pretty crazy," he said.

Marumoto, manager of the dive section at the Hanapa'a Fishing store on Dillingham Boulevard, said he would probably wait a few days before fishing along the shoreline.

In the past, he said, there has been some tension between fishers and swimmers. "I remember a lot of swimmers being pretty pissed off that there are lines in the water," he said.

Even so, the fishing area is popular because it is convenient for town residents and has a good variety of fish.

The state has managed the Waikiki fisheries area since 1978.

The managed area extends from the high-water mark on shore to at least 500 yards off shore, or to the edge of the fringing reef.

Fishing is not allowed between the 'ewa edge of the Natatorium and the 'ewa edge of Kapahulu groin.

For more information on the fishing rules, go to www.hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar or pick up a fishing regulations booklet, available at most sporting good stores or at the state Aquatic Resources office, 1151 Punchbowl St., room 330.

Reach Mary Vorsino at mvorsino@honoluluadvertiser.com.

Make a difference. Donate to The Advertiser Christmas Fund.