More awareness on illegal fishing needs to be done in coastal areas around the country.

Fisheries Minister Semi Koroilavesau says illegal fishing is a major concern for the Ministry.

Koroilavesau says all fishermen should be aware of the regulations that are in place.

He adds that school visit awareness is an option they are currently looking at. Last year, the Ministry collected $54,000 dollars from illegal fishing fines.

The Minister says fisheries officials will be visiting villages in the Maritime and Coastal areas to provide more awareness on the various policies that are in place.