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Amerika Samoa Fisheries Newsletter April Issue No. 1
- Nathan Ilaoa
- Apr 2
- 9 min read
202nd Council Meeting Wrapup, and Upcoming MREP Meetings and I'a Lapo'a Fishing Tournament
American Samoa fisheries see potential relief on monitoring costs, bottomfish management changes discussed, and local anglers gear up for a tri-nation tournament.
Talofa everyone! 👋 It's our April American Samoa Fisheries Network Newsletter and here’s the lowdown on what’s been happening with our fisheries:
Big news from the Western Pacific Fishery Council meeting! We made a lot of noise about the costs of electronic monitoring (EM) for our longline boats, and it sounds like they heard us! They’re leaning towards NMFS covering all those costs, which is a huge win and could save our fleet from some serious financial strain. We also saw the final action on changing the list of managed bottomfish for American Samoa, focusing on the main deep snapper species.
Our own American Samoa Advisory Panel (AP) meeting in March was busy too. We talked about those bottomfish changes and the upcoming crew training for longline boats. EM was a big topic, and we pushed hard to make sure our local longline fleet isn't burdened with additional costs at a time when the fishery is experiencing financial hardship.
The Marine Resource Education Program is hosting the Western Pacific Fisheries Science and Management workshop in the first week of April, some of our folks have been invited to attend and learn more about how the Council and fishery management works. Representing American Samoa will be:
Edgar Feliciano
Nate Ilaoa
Taalo Lauofo
Fa’aliga Matagi
Rep. Gene Pan
Ufagafa Ray Tulafono
Vera Peck
Finally, get your fishing gear ready! Our Steinlager I’a Lapo’a Tournament is coming up from April 19th to 26th, 2025. This year is extra special because it’s part of a bigger competition with Independent Samoa and Tonga. It’s gonna be a great chance to show everyone what American Samoa’s fishing is all about! 🎣
Keep up the great work, everyone!
Soifua,
Nate, Editor
Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council's 202nd Meeting
Western Pacific Council Meeting Addresses Key Issues for American Samoa Fisheries
The recent 202nd Meeting of the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council saw significant discussions impacting the fisheries of American Samoa, addressing topics from electronic monitoring costs to the need for stronger local support.
Electronic Monitoring for Longline Fleet
A primary concern at the Council meeting was the proposed implementation of electronic monitoring (EM) in the longline fisheries. The potential for significant financial burdens on American Samoa longline operators was a major point of contention. While the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) indicated it would cover $4 million in upfront EM program costs, the possibility of the industry bearing the $10,000 per vessel cost for system replacements every three years raised serious concerns.
American Samoa Vice Chair Archie Soliai questioned NMFS’s commitment to long-term cost-sharing. Council Executive Director Kitty Simonds argued strongly that federally mandated monitoring costs, particularly those related to protected species under the Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act, should be fully funded by the federal government. American Samoa Advisory Panel (AP) Vice Chair Nate Ilaoa warned of potential total economic collapse for the American Samoa fleet if these costs were passed on.
Ultimately, the Council recommended that NMFS should cover all EM costs, including administrative and sampling expenses, recognizing that EM is primarily for monitoring protected species interactions as human observer coverage declines. This aligns with the American Samoa AP’s recommendation to maintain cost responsibility with the agency. The Council also supported exploring voluntary implementation of EM as it is phased in.
Crew Training for Longline Fleet
The Council also reviewed the progress on developing a crew training requirement for longline fisheries in both Hawaii and American Samoa. Asuka Ishizaki, Council staff, provided an update, noting that while American Samoa already has existing training programs, the amendment aims to establish consistent standards across the region, addressing inconsistencies particularly in Hawaii.
The revised Terms and Conditions (T&C) would require longline vessels to carry at least two trained personnel with approved training, with at least one trained person on deck when an ESA-listed species interaction occurs during gear retrieval. The Council is working with NMFS to ensure the training program is accessible and to explore appointment scheduling systems to improve participation. It was clarified that this requirement does not mandate training for all crew members.
Bottomfish Management Unit Species Final Action
The Council addressed the revision of the American Samoa Bottomfish Management Unit Species (BMUS) list. Council Staff and NOAA science staff provided an overview of the process, which aimed to evaluate species to ensure they require federal conservation and management. The American Samoa AP considered three alternatives. Aligning with the AP’s recommendation, the Council recommended taking final action on Alternative 3, revising the BMUS list to include only 6 species of deep snappers that have sufficient data for stock assessments. The remaining seven species will be reclassified as ecosystem component species and will be monitored but not directly managed through annual catch limits (ACLs). This decision reflects the undesirable nature of the status quo, as previously noted by the AP.
Trump Executive Orders & Funding for American Samoa
The Council discussed the implications of recent Executive Orders (EOs) from the Trump Administration, particularly EO 14192, Unleashing Prosperity through Deregulation, which requires federal agencies to eliminate at least 10 existing regulations for every new one. Council members expressed concerns about potential negative impacts on fisheries management and conservation efforts, including the proposed listing of giant clams. The Council will advise the Administration on its concerns related to the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Furthermore, the Council addressed severe funding shortfalls that threaten fisheries management and capacity-building programs across the Pacific Islands, including American Samoa. Concerns were raised about budget reductions for the Council’s scholarship program, which supports students from American Samoa pursuing careers in fisheries management. Representative Trude Ledoux-Sunia from the American Samoa Fono expressed disappointment in the potential loss of funding, emphasizing its impact on developing the next generation of fishing scientists and managers. The Council is urging the U.S. Department of Commerce to address these funding shortfalls. Concerns were also raised about EO 14169, “Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid,” and its potential to jeopardize fishing arrangements with Pacific Island countries that are vital to the U.S. fishery supporting American Samoa’s economy.
Need for US Coast Guard Asset and Presence in American Samoa
The American Samoa AP discussed significant issues regarding the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements impacting the local longline fleet. A major concern is the requirement for U.S. masters on all longline fleet boats, which is considered a threat to the viability of American Samoa’s largest local fishery. Responses from the Coast Guard Rear Admiral were deemed “insulting,” suggesting that people in American Samoa become naturalized citizens.
Additionally, the requirement for mainland-certified life rafts is costly, and the AP suggested exploring whether a neighboring island company could provide this service. It was noted that Apia provides internationally recognized life raft services that are much cheaper, and the USCG would reportedly not penalize the local fleet for using them, though obtaining written consent is desired. The AP also highlighted the disruptive yearly rotation of personnel from the local Marine Safety Detachment and suggested assigning a local person to the detachment for consistency. The AP has made recommendations on these issues in the past and will likely continue to advocate for solutions that support the American Samoa fishing industry.
American Samoa Advisory Panel Reviews Bottomfish, EM, Crew Training, and More
“Given the severe financial hardship of the American Samoa longline fishery, it is crucial that the agency, not the operators, bears the costs of mandates like electronic monitoring and crew training to maintain the viability of the territory’s main economic driver."
The American Samoa Advisory Panel (AP) met on March 18, 2025 in the Council's Fagatogo Office. Attendees were members Vice-Chair Nate Ilaoa, Jerome Ierome, Rep. Gene Pan, Edgar Feliciano, Nonu Tuisamoa and Dustin Snow. Council staff and NOAA scientists provided presentations on some of the agenda items.
Bottomfish Management
The AP discussed the revision of the Bottomfish Management Unit Species (BMUS) list. Ultimately, they recommended that the Council take final action on Alternative 3, which would narrow the list to 6 deep snapper species with sufficient data for stock assessments. This aligns with the AP’s view that the current situation is not ideal.
Longline Crew Training
Updates were provided on the crew training requirements for longline fisheries. The revised plan mandates at least two trained personnel on board, with one on deck during interactions with ESA-listed species. While American Samoa has existing training, the goal is to ensure consistent standards across the region.
Electronic Monitoring (EM) Costs
A major focus was the feasibility of electronic monitoring (EM) in longline fisheries. Concerns were raised about the potential $10,000 per vessel cost for system replacements. The American Samoa AP recommended that the agency, not vessel operators, should bear the costs of EM implementation due to the fishery’s economic hardship. They also advocated for voluntary adoption as the program is phased in and emphasized the need for outreach to the longline industry.
US Coast Guard Concerns
Significant discussion centered on US Coast Guard (USCG) requirements, particularly the need for U.S. masters on all longline boats and the high cost of mainland-certified life rafts. The AP explored the possibility of using more affordable, internationally recognized life raft services in Apia. The disruptive yearly rotation of USCG personnel was also noted.
Other Initiatives
The AP received updates on the Fishery Educator Project, a collaboration to create marine and fisheries educational resources. The AP’s Facebook page continues to be an important communication tool. The success of the Passport to Fishing pilot project for children was highlighted. Enhancements to the I’a Lapo’a fishing tournament, which will be part of a larger regional competition, were also announced.
Get Ready for the 2025 Steinlager I’a Lapo’a Game Fishing Tournament!
American Samoa is gearing up for the annual Steinlager I’a Lapo’a Game Fishing Tournament, a highlight of the local fishing calendar. This year’s event, happening from April 19th to the 26th, 2025, promises to be even bigger and more exciting as it becomes part of the inaugural NPDL Pacific Island Tournament.
Hosted by the Pago Pago Gamefishing Association and sanctioned by the IGFA, the tournament will welcome visiting anglers from Independent Samoa and Tonga. The Steinlager I’a Lapo’a leg follows the Samoa International Game Fishing Association (SIGFA) tournament in neighboring Samoa and precedes the final leg in Tonga. SIGFA is the organizer of this new, multi-island competition.
This year marks the first time for the NPDL Pacific Island Tournament, spanning Samoa (April 5th-12th), American Samoa (April 20th-26th), and Tonga (May 5th-10th). Anglers participating in the Steinlager I’a Lapo’a tournament will contribute to the overall standings of this regional competition, with cumulative points from all three legs determining the overall winners.
Adding to the prestige, the NPDL Pacific Island Tournament is a qualifier for the prestigious Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica. This provides an extra incentive for anglers to compete fiercely in American Samoa.
This year’s inclusion in the NPDL Pacific Island Tournament demonstrates growth, bringing together anglers from across the region for a thrilling competition.
Get ready for a week of exciting fishing action in Pago Pago!
American Samoa Participants Will Engage in Western Pacific Fisheries Science & Management Workshop
Marine Resource Education Program (MREP) will host the Marine Resource Education Program (MREP) Western Pacific Fisheries Science & Management Workshop from April 4th to 10th, 2025, at the Ala Moana Hotel. This intensive program aims to educate fishery users about the federal fishery management council process. The workshop will target presenters and participants involved in Western Pacific fisheries.
A number of individuals from American Samoa are invited and expected to participate, including:
Edgar Feliciano, longline fishing business owner
Fa’aliga Matagi, fisherman
Nate Ilaoa, Fishery Management Council’s American Samoa Advisory Panel Chair Rep. Gene Pan, House of Representatives
Taalo Lauofo, fisherman
Ufagafa Ray Tulafono, fmr. Director of DMWR, Advisory Panel Member
Vera Peck, Founder of Fatoata Non-profit fisheries organization
The workshop schedule will offer a comprehensive overview of fisheries science and management:
Friday, April 4th will feature a Fish Auction Tour at Pier 38 and Cooperative Research Introduction & Demonstrations.
Saturday, April 5th will include introductions and high-level discussions on Western Pacific fisheries, history, communities, federal fisheries science & management, jurisdictional boundaries, and inter-agency collaboration.
Monday, April 7th will focus on Information Gathering at the NOAA Science Center, covering data collection, oceanography, and science center tours.
Tuesday, April 8th will involve Assessing Information, with sessions on stock assessment models, habitat concerns, bridging science & management, and integrating local fishermen knowledge.
Wednesday, April 9th will cover Management and will include a Mock-Council Exercise/Role Play, detailing the council process, federal regulatory framework, negotiation skills, and a practical exercise.
Thursday, April 10th will conclude with “Bringing it all Together & How to Get Involved,” featuring success stories, discussion on next steps, and a leadership panel.
This workshop will provide a valuable opportunity for participants from American Samoa to deepen their understanding of the complex processes involved in federal fishery management and to network with other stakeholders in the Western Pacific region.
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