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Hawaii Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Fishing Charters In Hawaii

Fishing in Kailua-Kona

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Kailua-Kona

Kona Coast Big Game Fishing

NEW
35 ft 1 - 5 People From $850
Fishing in Kapaʻa

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Kapaʻa

Eastside Sportfishing Half Day

100% (1)
26 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Bucket List
Captain Experiences staff chose this trip as one for the bucket list.
Fishing in Kailua-Kona

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Kailua-Kona

Kona Legendary Sportfishing

100% (1)
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,500
Fishing in Kailua-Kona

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Kailua-Kona

Kona Big Game Fishing - 31’ Bertram

60% (5)
31 ft 1 - 4 People From $700
Fishing in Lihue

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Lihue

8hr Hana Hou Deep Offshore Trip

100% (1)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,723
Fishing in Eleele

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Eleele

6 Hour Hawaiian Sportfishing

NEW
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,280

Top Cities in Hawaii

Most Popular Types of Trips in Hawaii

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Fishing Charters In Hawaii

Fishing in Eleele
Fishing in Eleele
Fishing in Eleele
trip description for 4 Hour Hawaiian Sportfishing in Eleele

If you've been hunting for a classic offshore sportfishing trip here in Hawaii, this is your ticket! Join Captain Rob on a thrilling fishing charter in Eleele, Hawaii, where you'll have the opportunity to catch some of the most sought-after fish in the Pacific Ocean, including Wahoo (known here as Ono), yellowfin Tuna, Striped Marlin, and Mahi Mahi! Wahoo, known for their incredible speed and fighting power, can be found year-round in the waters around Eleele, and are a popular target for anglers. yellowfin Tuna, another prized species, can be caught from June to November, and are known for their delicious meat and high value as a game fish. Striped Marlin, a powerful billfish species, can be caught from April to November, and are a challenging and exciting species to target. Mahi Mahi, also known as Dorado, are a brightly-colored fish that can be caught year-round, and are considered one of the best-tasting fish in the ocean. All of these species are excellent on the grill, but you should also consider preparing your catches as poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish made using raw fish and a huge variety of seasonings and sauces. Captain Rob is a seasoned vet when it comes to offshore fishing, and runs his charters on a decked-out 42' Uniflite sportfisher. She has all the necessary gear for trolling, plus live wells for bait, ice boxes, and full cabin, and more. Rob will provide you with all the necessary instructions and guidance throughout the charter, making sure that you have a fun and successful fishing experience. All you need to bring is your fishing license, sunscreen, and a cooler to take home your catch. Book your trip now and experience the thrill of catching these amazing fish in the beautiful waters of Eleele, Hawaii with Captain Rob! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Eleele

4 Hour Hawaiian Sportfishing

NEW
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $990
Fishing in Kalaoa
Fishing in Kalaoa
Fishing in Kalaoa
trip description for Private Fishing Charter in Kalaoa

Book your next trip with us and find out what makes the fishing in Kailua-Kona so unique. You’re always in knowledgeable and experienced hands. Blue Marlin, ono (Wahoo), Mahi Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna, Striped Marlin, Short bill Spearfish, and more are in the cards if you come at the right time of year. The team welcomes you aboard a 33’ Offshore sport fishing boat that can carry up to 5 passengers. It comes equipped with all the necessary fishing technology including outriggers, a fighting chair, live bait station and more. Plus, inside you’ll find a small sitting area with table and a clean bathroom with sink and toilet. Your captain will provide rods and reels for you, along with lures. Live baiting is always an option on longer charters and is dependent on current, but be sure to ask about it so you know if you’ll be catching it yourself. Kona has the unique distinction of being one of the few places in the world that has a caught over a 1,000 lbs blue marlin in each month of the year, meaning you have the opportunity to land a massive trophy fish. We are also home to other species and the captain and crew are always willing to accommodate any special request you may have to target a particular species. A First Mate will be there to make sure everything is running smoothly. Mates often work for tips and it’s customary to offer them a 20% tip. You can’t go wrong when you bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen (non-spray). Bottled water and light snacks are included. Alcohol is allowed in moderation, so long as you avoid hard liquor and glass bottles. Now, come aboard with us and get hooked! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Kalaoa

Private Fishing Charter

NEW
33 ft 1 - 5 People From $775
Fishing in Lihue
Fishing in Lihue
Fishing in Lihue
trip description for 6hr Ho'okipa Fishing Trip in Lihue

Maui is known worldwide for its legendary sportfishing, and this trip off of Ho'okipa is no exception. Aboard Captain Ikena's 35' Cabo Express sportfisher, you'll be able to chase some of the Pacific's greatest pelagic species, including everything from Wahoo (known locally as "ono") to Striped Marlin, Bigeye Tuna, and many, many more. Nowhere else in the world is such successful big-game fishing found in such calm waters. Sea conditions off the Ko'okipa coast are typically calm and sunny, and the island’s steep bottom puts big-game fishing just 1/2-mile offshore. In addition, Pacific currents and trade winds make this area an important stop for migrating pelagic fish, which come here to feast on baitfish, squid, and more. Six species of billfish congregate here, including Blue Marlin, Black Marlin, Striped Marlin, Shortnose Spearfish, Sailfish, and Swordfish. These are all on the menu on this trip, although of course there are no guarantees. You'll be in great hands with Captain Ikena. He has years of experience fishing these waters, and his boat is decked out with luxury amenities and advanced sportfishing equipment to give you the best chance of hooking some huge fish. That includes a full flybridge, A/C cabin, full restroom, galley, and dinette. His rods are custom-built for the boat (courtesy of Kaua'i's Z-Lures) and are paired with Shimano Tiagra reels. Rest assured, when you're fishing with Captain Ikena, you will be using top of the line tackle to land your fish of a lifetime. The fish are waiting—get out there and chase 'em! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Lihue

6hr Ho'okipa Fishing Trip

100% (1)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,346
Fishing in Lihue
Fishing in Lihue
Fishing in Lihue
trip description for 4hr Kaua'i Quick Offshore Run in Lihue

Discover the ultimate fishing experience in Kauai, Hawaii with Captain Ikena at the helm. With years of fishing expertise and a passion for the sea, Captain Ikena will guide you to the hottest fishing spots in search of the catch of a lifetime. You'll be cool and comfortable aboard his 35' Cabo Express sportfisher, a top-of-the-line fishing vessel equipped with the latest technology and gear. The boat's spacious deck and comfy seating provide ample room for you and your group to move around and make the most of your day on the water. As you set sail, get ready to pursue some of the most sought-after species in Hawaiian waters. With Captain Ikena's guidance, you'll have the opportunity to target Skipjack Tuna, Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna, and more! If you're after a specific species, just let the captain know and he can make sure to put you on 'em. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, you'll have the time of your life as you reel in these magnificent fish! The excitement doesn't stop once you've landed your catch. Take in the breathtaking views of the Hawaiian coastline as you head back to shore, and savor the memories of the day's adventure. With a successful fishing trip, you'll also have the opportunity to enjoy some of the freshest seafood you've ever tasted. Book your trip with Captain Ikena today and get ready for a day filled with unforgettable memories, stunning scenery, and, of course, plenty of fish! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Kauai's rich fishing heritage and make memories that will last a lifetime. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Lihue

4hr Kaua'i Quick Offshore Run

100% (1)
35 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,023
Fishing in Lahaina
Fishing in Lahaina
Fishing in Lahaina
trip description for Afternoon Maui Sportfishing in Lahaina

Breathtaking Maui scenery … optimal sportfishing conditions … impeccably maintained and outfitted 42′ (loa) Dorado sportfisher … an experienced and courteous crew. Put it all together and you’ve begun to picture your Maui sportfishing experience aboard Lahaina Maui’s #1 highliner with Captain Deli! Whether you’re a novice or an experienced sportfishing enthusiast, you’ll discover that deep sea fishing off Maui, Hawaii is unlike any other sportfishing experience you’ve ever had. A Maui sportfishing adventure from Lahaina may take you around the islands of Lanai, Molokai, Kahoolawe or Molokini, offering a fishing guest a rare experience afforded only a few of Hawaii’s visitors! On these Maui trips you’ll have a chance to hook up to a variety of Marlin species, Mahi Mahi (dorado), Ahi (tuna), Ono (wahoo) and more. These trips involve a slight run offshore (30-40min) to get to the deep water where all the game fish you'll target will be caught on the troll. Trolling is when one or more fishing lines, baited with lures or bait fish, are drawn through the water. The fishing rods are placed in rod holders and the lines are set with the lures at varying distances behind the boat held apart by the outriggers to avoid line tangling. Trolling speed varies depending on water and weather conditions. The ideal position of the bait is skimming on the surface of the water to mimic the behavior of an injured or fast-moving fish, this is what attracts the game fish we are targeting. Everything is provided when you go out with Captain Deli and his crew from top-of-the-line rods and reels, to bait and tackle, to ice cold waters and fishing licenses. All they recommend you bring is your sunscreen (lotion only), non-marking shoes, and any snacks and drinks you'd like to enjoy onboard. Captain Doug and Crew will take care of the rest to ensure you make memories that last a lifetime aboard their boat! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Lahaina

Afternoon Maui Sportfishing

NEW
42 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,400
Fishing in Kalaoa
Fishing in Kalaoa
trip description for Ahi and A'u Adventure - 38' Ocean in Kalaoa

Join Captain Mark for an unforgettable fishing experience off the coast of Kalaoa, where the target is big Yellowfin and Marlin. Captain Mark is serious about catching trophy-sized fish, so don't expect to go after smaller species like Mahi Mahi or Wahoo. Instead, you'll be reeling in massive gamefish like giant Yellowfin Tuna and big Blue Marlin, which put up an impressive fight and are known for their aerial displays. Hawaii is home to deep waters that are just a short, 15-minute ride offshore. This means that you won't have to spend hours on a boat to get to the prime fishing waters. In fact, thousands of feet of water can be reached within minutes, where you can target trophy gamefish. Captain Mark's trip includes everything you need for a successful day of fishing: fishing licenses, tackle, bait, fish cleaning and packaging, and coolers filled with ice. Plus, you'll even receive complimentary photos and videos of your trip. All of the gear on board is of the highest quality, with Shimano reels and IGFA-qualified rods and tackles. If you're looking to catch the trophy of a lifetime, Captain Mark is the man for the job! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Kalaoa

Ahi And A'u Adventure - 38' Ocean

NEW
38 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,300
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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Charter in Hawaii

What are the best fishing charters in Hawaii?

Why should I book a fishing charter in Hawaii with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 13 trips in Hawaii, and the most popular trips in the area are Kona Coast Big Game Fishing guided by John, Kona Legendary Sportfishing guided by Gaige, and Kona Big Game Fishing - 31’ Bertram guided by Dale.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly charters / fishing lessons in Hawaii? Check out our beginner and family friendly charters in Hawaii.

What types of fishing charters are common in Hawaii?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing in Hawaii as well as nearshore fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Hawaii are: 1. yellowfin tuna, 2. blue marlin, 3. wahoo, 4. mahi mahi, and 5. striped marlin.

The most common fishing techniques in Hawaii are trolling, heavy tackle fishing, and artificial lure fishing but live bait fishing and bottom fishing are popular as well.

How much do Hawaii fishing charters cost?

Prices in Hawaii can range anywhere from about $738 to $1,612, but the average price for a half day trip in Hawaii is $879. The average price for a full day trip in Hawaii is $1,304.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in Hawaii?

The most popular season for fishing in Hawaii is summer, and most anglers book their trips 37 days in advance.

Do I need a Hawaii fishing license and what are the bag limits in Hawaii?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Hawaii, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Hawaii. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Hawaii.

Hawaii Fishing Overview

The Hawaiian Islands are the peaks of an underwater mountain range putting deep water and huge fish well within reach. The fishing opportunities in Hawaii will spoil any deep sea angler with travel times measured in minutes and fights that can last hours. Leaving the Honokohau Harbor in Kona Hawaii takes about 5 minutes to get from the docks to the buoys. At this point, start setting out lines because by the time the last one hits the water you are fishing in over 1,000 feet of water. All of the Hawaiian Islands have similarly exceptional fishing and every trip has the potential to hook up with massive and delicious fish. There are plenty of stories about tuna and blue marlin being caught within sight of the buoys.

Hawaii Nearshore Fishing

There is very little difference between nearshore and offshore fishing in Hawaii because of how quickly the seafloor drops off. With that being said, fishing closer to shore is more likely to produce mahi-mahi, wahoo (Ono), and skipjack tuna (Aku). These fish will push closer to shore to hunt currents and deep rock formations. Baitfish will group up around anything that might provide cover but these aggressive fish don’t have trouble finding them.

Mahi typically weigh 25 pounds and grows over three feet long but will occasionally grow much larger with the current record sitting at 82 pounds. Wahoo are the most ferocious of these fish with a mouth full of sharp teeth, a common size of three to four feet long, and a weight of about 20 pounds. The largest wahoo can grow to almost six feet long and over 150 pounds which would be a tough fight for any angler. Mahi and wahoo are also some of the most delicious fish with frim white delicate meat. Skipjack tuna are much smaller at around five pounds for most fish but they have been known to grow well over 30 pounds. With darker red meat skipjack are tasty but oily with a more pronounced flavor that can be hit or miss.

All of these fish all travel in schools and trolling frequently produces multiple bites that happen all at once. Nearshore trips are great for targeting these fish but there is still a chance that one of the larger species will move in from the depths and crush your bait.

Deep Sea Fishing Hawaii

Trolling for deep sea giants is the same as nearshore but instead of following the shoreline, you are likely to head away from land. The nearshore fish also hunt further out but they have to compete with the marlin, tuna, and sailfish. These fish are next-level predators in both size and strength. Hooking into a big marlin could mean you will be battling it out for the next several hours.

Yellowfin tuna are widely accepted as one of the most delicious fish in the ocean but trying to land one is no easy task. Yellowfin tuna can grow up to almost eight feet long and 440 pounds with 100 pounds being fairly common. These tuna are formidable fighters that will test the endurance of even seasoned anglers.

The most prized sportfish in Hawaii is the blue marlin. These bluewater behemoths as fast, strong, aggressive, and grow over 1,000 pounds. A blue marlin over 1,000 pounds is called a grander and Hawaii has been responsible for landing over 150 of them. The striped marlin is a smaller relative of the blue marlin topping out around 200 pounds. Both of these fish are fierce and require anglers to be on point if you want to land one.

Best Times to Go Fishing in Hawaii

Starting in the winter months, striped marlin and mahi are in the area and firing on all cylinders until late spring. The wahoo bite picks up fast from late spring into the summer when the yellowfin and blue marlin move in. Summer into fall is one of the best times to take a trip with the yellowfin and blue marlin bite at its peak while also overlapping with all of the other species at different points.

Other Things to Do in Hawaii

Hawaii is home to tropical weather and stunning landscape. The weather can vary dramatically depending on the island and area you stay in but there is plenty to do wherever you go. If you love being outdoors then hit the hiking trails for amazing views or to reach faraway secluded beaches. If relaxation is the goal then a soft sandy beach with a sunrise or sunset view is never far away. Snorkeling or diving at the historic Cook’s cove is some of the best in the world if you like to immerse yourself in nature. To find your next adventure in Hawaii, all you have to do is leave your room and go looking.

Does Hawaii have good fishing?

Hawaii is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering unique and diverse opportunities that are hard to match elsewhere. The state's vast and vibrant ocean waters are home to a variety of fish species, making it a paradise for saltwater anglers. From shore fishing to deep-sea expeditions, Hawaii's fishing scene caters to all preferences. Anglers can target a wide range of species including Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi), Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo (Ono), and the prized Blue Marlin. The clear, warm waters around the Hawaiian Islands provide excellent conditions for fishing year-round, ensuring that visitors can enjoy productive trips no matter when they visit.

In addition to deep-sea fishing, Hawaii offers excellent opportunities for shore and reef fishing. The coastal areas and shallow reefs are teeming with species like Bonefish (O'io), Trevally (Ulua), and various types of Snapper and Goatfish. Local anglers often fish from the beaches, rocky shores, and piers, taking advantage of the abundant marine life that thrives close to the islands. Kayak fishing has also gained popularity, allowing anglers to access more remote spots and enjoy the serene beauty of Hawaii's coastal waters. The diverse marine environments around the islands ensure that there's always something biting, making shore and reef fishing a rewarding experience.

Hawaii's fishing community is vibrant and well-supported by a range of resources, including charter services, fishing guides, tackle shops, and annual tournaments. Events like the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament draw anglers from around the world, fostering a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition. The state also emphasizes sustainable fishing practices and marine conservation to protect its rich marine ecosystems for future generations. Local regulations and initiatives are in place to ensure that fishing remains a sustainable and enjoyable activity. Overall, Hawaii's combination of abundant marine life, diverse fishing environments, and strong community support make it an exceptional destination for anglers seeking an unforgettable fishing experience.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Shout out to Cap'n Harry! Great fishing outing! He knows his stuff! The boat was great! We enjoyed fresh fish for the week! Looking forward to going out again next time!

    Cody P. with Harry R. of Kapaʻa, Hawaii

  • ★★★★★
    Had an awesome time, and definitely once in a lifetime trip! Captain Gaige was very welcoming and helpful and his first mate was also very helpful with my boys and I fishing. The boat is extremely well maintained and cared for, and it sounds like they work hard to make sure it’s up to date with the latest technology to make for a great experience. We were hoping for a fun day, and got just that with our first Blue Marlin and a spearfish as well! Definitely some fun action! I will definitely be scheduling again the next time I make it out!

    Matthew O. with Gaige I. of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

  • ★★★★★
    Dale and his deckhand were extremely professional, my father is an older gentleman that is not very mobile, they went above and beyond and accommodating for him, and my son caught his first blue marlin!!!!! They were wonderful and I’m looking forward to another day on the ocean with him tomorrow, if it was anything like today, it will be a day to remember

    Kirk E. with Dale L. of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

  • ★★★★★
    These guys made for a great fishing trip. Very hospitable, friendly, and knowledgeable. Boat was clean and comfortable. Would definitely recommend.

    Thomas H. with Ikena H. of Lihue, Hawaii

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. Dale and first mate Jack were great. The 31’ Bertram was clean and spacious and ran smooth as can be, and the canopy came in handy on a Sunny day. While the Marlin fishing was slow (listening to the radio, none of the boats in the tournament caught), we couldn’t have had a better time swapping stories with Dale and Jack, downing some Big Island brews, taking in the scenery, and watching whales breach. Hope to do it again soon! -Jonathan with Captain Experiences

    Jonathan N. with Dale L. of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

  • ★★★★★
    Everying as promised. If you want a fishing experience captain Dale is your man. We had an amazing day and Dale and Jack took care of us. Can't say enough about the experience and we had ages 8 to 80 involved. Great times.

    Tom H. with Dale L. of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Top Types of Fishing in Hawaii

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