Location
Key Information
Feedback and Data Requests
Purpose
The refuge is a managed as a highly-restricted marine protected area. Less than 5 feet in elevation and one of the most pristine coral reef atoll ecosystems in the Pacific, Kingman Reef lies 932 miles southwest of Hawai‘i. Crystal clear oceanic waters and vibrant coral reefs support a spectacular diversity of corals, algae, fishes, marine mammals, sea turtles and migratory seabirds.
Species of Concern: Corals (Scleractinia)
Regulations Summary
Restrictions
1. Commercial fishing and public uses are prohibited.
2. Fishing is prohibited landward of the 50 fathom curve.
3. PRIA coral reef ecosystem MUS may not be taken by means of spearfishing with SCUBA at night (from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.) in the EEZ.
4. Fishing for PRIA bottomfish MUS with bottom trawls and bottom set gillnets is prohibited. Possession of a bottom trawl and bottom set gillnet by any vessel having a permit or otherwise established to be fishing for PRIA bottomfish MUS in the PRIA fishery management area is prohibited.
5. The possession or use of any poisons, explosives, or intoxicating substances for the purpose of harvesting PRIA bottomfish is prohibited.
Allowed
Recreational fishing may be permitted, subject to federal law.