How to Go Spearfishing in Hawaii: The Complete Guide for 2024

Hawaii, known as the “Aloha State,” offers incredible fishing experiences, especially spearfishing. With over 130 islands surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, it’s a paradise for anglers. If you’re curious about spearfishing but unsure where to start, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll give you the lowdown on spearfishing in Hawaii, covering everything from the best spots to the rules and gear you’ll need. Get ready to explore this exciting underwater adventure with us!

Also Read: Spearfishing Weight Belt Calculator

Hawaii is one of the top places for spearfishing worldwide. What makes it so special? It’s a combination of factors:

This is just a glimpse of what spearfishing in Hawaii offers. Stay tuned for our guide to help you prepare for this thrilling adventure!

When spearfishing in Hawaii, you have a wide range of fish to target, from colourful reef fish to big ones in the deep sea. You can go after anything from Parrotfish to Tuna, but your experience and what you like will guide your choice. Here are some top catches to consider:

Snappers and Groupers

In Hawaii, Snappers and Groupers are often found near reefs. Some, like Roi (Bluespotted Grouper) and Toau (Blacktail Snapper), are invasive and harm the ecosystem by preying on local fish. Targeting these invaders can help protect the environment.

For native species like Uku (Blue-Green Snapper), spearfishing offers a challenge. They’re smart and worthy opponents, requiring strategy to catch. Locals can offer tips and tricks to improve your success.

Trevally

Trevally are prized fish for spearfishers in Hawaii, known for their strength and taste. Popular among enthusiasts, they offer a thrilling battle. Whether you prefer shallow waters or deep sea, Trevally are a great catch. 

Giant Trevally (Ulua), Bluefin Trevally (Omilu), and Yellow-spotted Trevally are favourites, each offering unique qualities. Whichever you catch, it’s a jackpot!

Mahi Mahi

Venturing beyond the flats and reefs into the open ocean brings exciting opportunities. Mahi Mahi, known for their energetic behaviour, await. They thrive in deeper waters, adding a challenge for spearfishers. Despite their depth, Mahi Mahi often swims near the surface, making them accessible for beginners. 

Spearfishing for them requires skill in swimming, aiming, and battling these spirited fish. Though challenging, landing a 50-pounder is immensely rewarding, especially during spring when larger specimens abound, offering delicious sashimi.

Tuna

During the summer heat, Yellowfin Tuna season peaks, beckoning spearfishers to venture into the deep sea. These formidable opponents, locally known as Ahi, are muscular and can weigh up to 300 pounds. Spearfishing for Yellowfin Tuna is challenging, as they are fast and unpredictable. 

Unlike Mahi Mahi, they don’t jump dramatically but require skill and experience to catch. Having a licensed guide is advisable, especially for first-timers tackling Yellowfin Tuna. Their expertise can make the difference between a successful catch and a missed opportunity in the vast ocean.

… And More!

Let’s not forget about the colourful reef fish! While Trevally, Mahi Mahi, and Tuna are top picks for spearfishing in Hawaii, there’s more to explore. Reef dwellers like Goatfish, Surgeonfish, Triggerfish, Wrasse, and Lionfish offer exciting challenges. They thrive around coral reefs and are perfect for both beginners and experts. 

Catching them is not only fun but also visually stunning. Once you’ve mastered these beauties, you can level up to faster species like Wahoo or take on the mighty Tuna for an adrenaline-filled adventure in the deep blue sea.

In Hawaii, you’re free to spearfish for many types of fish, following size and quantity limits. However, there are strict rules against spearfishing for certain species, mainly Lobsters and Crabs:

Respecting these rules helps preserve these species and ensures sustainable fishing practices.

In Hawaii, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island offer prime spearfishing spots. Kauai also has good locations, but these three islands are spearfishing hotspots. Here are some top spots:

While spearfishing is common, some areas have restrictions. For example, the Diamond Head shoreline on Oahu allows spearfishing only during daylight, and the Waiakea Public Fishing Area on Maui prohibits it entirely. 

If you’re new to spearfishing and shopping for gear online feels overwhelming, don’t worry. Starting simple is key, and you can always add more gear later. Your guide will likely have any essentials you forget. Here’s what you need:

The good news is you don’t need a special permit for spearfishing in Hawaii, but if you’re from out of state, you’ll need a saltwater fishing license, which is affordable and comes in daily, weekly, or annual options.

Understanding where you can fish and the size and quantity limits can be confusing. If you’re with a guide, they’ll keep you informed about local laws and help with regulations on fish species and sizes.

Spearfishing in Hawaii offers a thrilling adventure amidst its stunning natural beauty and rich marine life. With proper equipment, knowledge of local regulations, and perhaps a seasoned guide, anyone can enjoy this exhilarating activity. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced spearfisher, Hawaii’s waters provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. 

So, pack your gear, obtain the necessary permits, and dive into the depths of Hawaii’s oceans for an unforgettable spearfishing experience. With safety, respect for the environment, and a sense of adventure, you’re sure to create lasting memories on your spearfishing journey in Hawaii.