In order to maintain and protect Cambodia’s marine fisheries in a sustainable way, fishing for kamong during the spawning season – which runs from January 15 to March 31 – is strictly prohibited, announced the Fisheries Administration (FiA).

“Kamong” typically refers to the Rastrelliger mackerels, particularly the short (R brachysoma) and Indian (R kanagurta) species, but can include similarly-looking fish such as the shortfin scad (Decapterus macrosoma), according to the agriculture ministry.

Pum Sotha, director-general of the FiA – which is under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries – called on fishermen in the coastal areas to temporarily suspend fishing for kamong through the duration of the spawning season, in order to allow the population to sustain itself and remain a commercially viable fishery.

“Every year, January 15 to March 31 is the breeding and spawning season for kamong. All marine fishermen must stop catching them during this period so fish stocks have the chance to replenish themselves,” he said.

He instructed officials of the FiA’s provincial cantonments – particularly in the costal provinces of Preah Sihanouk, Kampot, Kep and Koh Kong – to make certain that the public is aware of the ban and its importance. Following the FiA’s orders would contribute to the sustainable management of kamong stocks, in line with national fisheries policies. It would ensure improved ecosystems and a safe habitat for kamong, which would in turn improve the livelihoods of local fishermen and their communities, he added.

Em Phea, director of the Preah Sihanouk cantonment, told The Post that his team has already shared the instructions with the fishing community and had deployed extra patrols to ensure the order was being followed.

“While the kamong season is closed, my officials will step up patrol activities and monitor local catches. Should we discover any fisherman has breached the prohibition on kamong, we will not hesitate to hold them accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” he said.