Only permitted fishing vessels will have access to waters around the Kahoolawe island reserve for trolling on Saturday and Sunday and Feb. 24 and 25, according to an announcement.

All vessels must register annually with the Kaho’olawe Island Reserve Commission before troll fishing in the reserve. And, a catch report must be filed with the commission whether fish are caught or not. Registration costs $25.

New rules aim to prevent introductions of invasive alien species, such as algae and barnacles. Vessel hulls need to be clean of such pests. Access to reserve waters is highly restricted because of underwater, unexploded ordnance. Restricted access also protects marine resources.

During two scheduled weekends each month, the commission allows limited trolling in reserve waters deeper than 30 fathoms and within 2 nautical miles of Kahoolawe. All other fishing, ocean recreation, commercial and other activities are prohibited.

The complete Kahoolawe trolling schedule for this year can be downloaded at www.kahoolawe.hawaii.gov/ocean/2018_PermittedTrollingSched.pdf.

To register or get more information on reserve trolling permits, contact Dean Tokishi at 243-5889, send email to dtokishi@kirc.hawaii.gov or visit kahoolawe.hawaii.gov. Registration packets are available at the state Division of Boating and Recreation office at 101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Road.