The annual 52-day trawling ban in Kerala will come into effect from midnight on June 9 and continue until July 31, requiring mechanized trawlers and deep-sea fishing vessels to remain ashore during the period.

The ban is enforced every year along Kerala’s coastline to protect fish stocks during the monsoon breeding season. Ahead of its implementation, the Fisheries Department has issued detailed guidelines for fishermen and boat operators.

While traditional fishing crafts are exempt and allowed to operate, mechanized fishing boats from other states have been directed to leave Kerala waters immediately. Marine fuel stations and diesel bunks at major fishing harbours have also been shut to prevent unauthorized fishing activities.

Authorities have instructed mechanized vessels to remain anchored at their designated base-of-operation centres. The Fisheries Department has announced free rations and financial assistance for registered fishermen and allied workers to help them tide over the lean period.

Fishermen venturing into the sea have been advised to carry life-saving equipment and keep registration documents, fishing licences and Aadhaar cards with them at all times.

Marine Enforcement personnel, the Coastal Police and district authorities will patrol the coastline during the ban period. Round-the-clock control rooms have also been opened to monitor compliance and respond to emergencies.

Meanwhile, the All Kerala Fishing Boat Operators Association, representing mechanized fishing vessel owners, has demanded the enforcement of a total fishing ban during the period. The association has urged the Fisheries Minister to stop issuing temporary licences to fishing boats from Tamil Nadu.

According to the association, the fishing ban in Tamil Nadu ends on June 15, after which boats from the neighbouring State operate in Kerala waters, adversely affecting local fish stocks. Operators also pointed out that dwindling fish availability and rising fuel costs have already eroded their earnings, and the 52-day fishing ban would further aggravate their financial difficulties.

Published on June 9, 2026