Hawaii Fishing: The Complete Guide for 2024
Hawaii is known as a beautiful group of islands with stunning scenery both on land and in the sparkling Pacific waters. Mark Twain even called it the loveliest in the world! Fishing in Hawaii is a fantastic way to experience its beauty. You can catch some of the most famous fish in the world here, and there are many ways to do it.
Big game sportfishing is especially popular, but you can also explore reefs, cruise the flats, and fish in freshwater. If you’re thinking about fishing in Hawaii, you might have some questions. Which island is best for you? How can you go fishing here? And what kind of fish can you catch? Let’s find out!
Also Read: How to Go Spearfishing in Hawaii: The Complete Guide for 2024
Best Catches in Hawaii
In Hawaii, you’ll find some of the best deep-sea fishing in the US. There are over 400 types of fish here, and many are popular among anglers.
There are also many other fish to catch in Hawaii, like Snapper, Rainbow Runner, Barracuda, Needlefish, Triggerfish, Wrasse, Jobfish, and Sharks. Plus, you can try freshwater fishing for Bass in lakes and reservoirs.
Hawaii Fishing Seasons
Fishing in Hawaii is great all year round, but summer is the best time to go. That’s when you’ll find the most popular fish like Marlin, Swordfish, Wahoo, Mahi Mahi, Tuna, and Snapper.
If you visit in fall or winter, there’s still plenty to catch. Bigeye and Yellowfin Tuna are big catches from December to February. You can also find Amberjack, Snapper, Jobfish, and Trevally during these months.
Hawaii Fishing Calendar
| Species | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Amberjack | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Great | Good |
| Bonefish | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good |
| Mahi Mahi | Fair | Good | Great | Great | Great | Great | Good | Good | Great | Great | Good | Fair |
| Marlin (Black) | Fair | Fair | Fair | Great | Great | Good | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair |
| Marlin (Blue) | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair |
| Marlin (Striped) | Fair | Good | Great | Great | Good | Good | Fair | Weak | Weak | Fair | Fair | Good |
| Snapper | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Fair |
| Swordfish | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair |
| Trevally (Giant) | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Great | Great | Great | Great | Good | Good | Fair | Fair |
| Tuna (Bigeye) | Great | Great | Great | Great | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Great | Great |
| Tuna (Skipjack) | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair |
| Tuna (Yellowfin) | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good | Great | Great | Great | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair |
| Wahoo | Fair | Fair | Good | Great | Great | Great | Great | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair |
Where is the best fishing in Hawaii?
Hawaii has eight main islands and many smaller ones. No matter where you fish, you’ll find great spots. Here are some top fishing spots you shouldn’t miss:
If you’re new to Hawaii and not sure where to go, this guide will help you choose the best island for you.
How to fish in Hawaii?
When you visit Hawaii, you’ll be amazed not only by the beautiful scenery but also by the abundance of fish and the different ways you can catch them. Here are the most popular fishing techniques:
Hawaii Fishing Trips
No matter what you want to achieve with your fishing, Hawaii has a trip for you. Local guides know the waters well and can help you navigate them safely. For beginners, there are short 2-hour trips near the shore. These are great for catching tasty fish without going too far out. If you want to experience deep sea fishing without spending the whole day, try a 4–5 hour half-day trip.
For a full fishing adventure, go for an 8+ hour expedition. These trips take you deep into the ocean where you can catch big game fish like Billfish. There are also longer trips lasting 10 hours or even a couple of days for serious anglers looking for their next trophy fish.
Hawaii Fishing Regulations
You don’t need a fishing license to fish in the flats, reefs, or open waters of the Pacific in Hawaii. Whether you’re on a charter or fishing alone, no license is required. For freshwater fishing in lakes or reservoirs, you’ll need a Hawaii fishing license. You can get one online from the Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources. Prices start at $6 for residents and $11 for out-of-state visitors.
If you’re fishing at Wahiawā Reservoir from the public fishing area, you’ll need a free entry permit along with your freshwater license. When it comes to keeping your catch, on deep-sea fishing charters, you can usually keep what you catch. If you’re bottom fishing around reefs, you’ll likely share your catch with the boat. Discuss your expectations with the captain beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.
How much does it cost to go fishing in Hawaii?
The cost of your fishing trip varies based on how long it is. Shared or shore fishing trips are budget-friendly, usually around $200. A private half-day trip lasts 4 hours and costs about $700. Full-day trips can cost double or more, starting at $1,500.
Conclusion
To wrap up, Hawaii offers an unparalleled fishing experience in 2024, boasting a vast array of fish species and diverse fishing opportunities. Whether you’re angling from the shore, on a boat, or trying your hand at spearfishing, Hawaii’s waters are teeming with excitement.
With the right equipment, knowledge of regulations, and respect for the environment, anglers of all levels can enjoy this paradise. From chasing trophy catches to savouring the taste of fresh seafood, Hawaii truly has it all. So, grab your gear, soak in the Aloha spirit, and embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure in Hawaii today!
