September 23, 2023 — The following was released by NOAA Fisheries:
Hawai‘i bottomfish are a significant cultural and commercial resource, and represent the profound connection between the local community and their surrounding waters. Ensuring their sustainability is important to continuing traditions, practices, and livelihoods. The annual Bottomfish Fishery-Independent Survey in Hawai‘i kicked off August 1 and runs through November 30, 2023. It aims to provide managers with the best available information to set commercial catch limits and help ensure a sustainable Deep 7 fishery. The success of the survey hinges on collaborative efforts between the NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center and local fishers working together to gather this important data.
The Deep 7
The Deep 7 are the most sought-after and important group of deep-water bottomfish in Hawai‘i. The group is made up of six snappers and one grouper that typically live at depths of 75 to 400 meters. The Hawai‘i Deep 7 consists of:
- Ehu (squirrelfish snapper)
- Gindai (Brigham’s snapper)
- Hapuʻupuʻu (Seale’s grouper, Hawaiian grouper)
- Kalekale (Von Siebold’s snapper)
- Lehi (silverjaw snapper
- Onaga (longtail snapper)
- ‘Ōpakapaka (pink snapper)
These species prefer deep waters and the nooks and crannies of hard seafloor habitats. Bottomfishing is a unique tradition in Hawaiʻi that requires a tremendous amount of knowledge and skill. Fishers and chefs alike prize the ‘ōpakapaka and onaga for their premium texture and mild flavor. Gindai rarely make it to market; this pink and yellow-striped snapper instead is typically found at the kitchen table being enjoyed by family and friends.