Kawaihae Fishing Charters
Kawaihae fishing charters run straight into the cobalt-blue drop-offs off Hawaii’s Kohala Coast, targeting marlin, ahi, mahi mahi, ono, and deep reef species year-round.
Top Rated Charters in Kawaihae
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Kawaihae, HI Fishing Guide
Kawaihae sits on the northwest coast of the Big Island, with a deep-water harbor that makes it a reliable launch point for charters working the Kona Coast’s northern waters. Like Kailua-Kona to the south, Kawaihae benefits from Hawaii’s steep underwater shelf—bluewater fishing grounds are just a short run outside the breakwall. Most half-day trips troll close to the ledges and FADs within 5–12 miles, while full-day trips expand north toward Upolu Point or south toward Kona’s famed canyons. The harbor is smaller and quieter than Honokohau, making it a good base for anglers looking to avoid heavy traffic while still fishing the same world-class waters.
The fishery structure is straightforward: immediate access to deepwater, nearby current lines that hold pelagics, and seamounts just offshore that make for productive bottom fishing. FADs off Kawaihae consistently produce tuna, mahi, and wahoo, while trolling the ledges gives you a chance at marlin any time of year. Many captains here run versatile charters, offering not just big-game trolling but also deep-dropping for snapper and amberjack, or light tackle reef sessions when seas are up.
Seasonally, fishing mirrors the rest of the Kona Coast. Summer brings the heaviest blue marlin and yellowfin bite, while winter offers striped marlin, spearfish, and mahi mahi. Ono are a spring highlight, hitting high-speed trolled lures along the reef edge. The weather tends to be calmer than other parts of the island, as the Kohala Coast is in the lee of the mountains, so trips are generally smooth year-round. Kawaihae’s location also allows captains to run north toward less-pressured grounds off Kohala and even across the channel toward Maui on the right weather window.
Boats range from smaller center consoles for quick runs to larger sportfishers equipped for heavy tackle marlin work. Trips are flexible—many captains here fish by what’s biting, with spreads ranging from heavy trolling lures to live skipjack for tuna. With quick access, diverse waters, and fewer crowds, Kawaihae is one of Hawaii’s most under-the-radar sportfishing hubs.
Fishing Seasons in Homer
Spring (March–May)
Spring kicks off the ono bite along the Kohala ledges. High-speed trolling with jet heads and plugs is the go-to tactic, with strikes often coming right along the reef edge. Mahi mahi are still consistent from the late-winter run, and some early-season ahi start showing at the FADs. Half-day charters are especially productive in spring, with close-in ledges holding plenty of fish. Calm conditions make it an ideal time for mixed trips combining trolling and reef action
Summer (June–August)
Summer is prime marlin season in Kawaihae, with blue marlin pushing through in good numbers. Giant fish over 500 pounds are a real possibility, and yellowfin tuna fishing peaks as well, especially around FADs and offshore ledges. Most charters run full-day trips, trolling big skirted lures or live baiting with skipjack tuna. Calm seas and long daylight hours make summer the best season for serious big-game hunters.
Fall (September–November)
Fall brings a more balanced bite, with smaller marlin, mahi, and tuna all available. September and October often see calmer seas, making it a great season for families and anglers looking for variety. Vertical jigging and deep-dropping become more popular, with snapper, amberjack, and grouper filling coolers when trolling slows. Some charters also push north toward Maui’s channels when weather allows, offering a chance at less-pressured waters.
Winter (December–February)
Winter fishing shifts to striped marlin, spearfish, and mahi mahi. Cooler waters bring these species closer, and trolling medium-size skirted lures or bait strips is effective. Blue marlin are less common but still show. Bottom fishing and reef trips are popular alternatives when seas are rough offshore, producing trevally, uku, and snapper. Half-day trips dominate in winter, as productive water lies so close to the harbor.
Gamefish in Kawaihae
- Blue Marlin – 150–800+ lbs. Best June–August offshore canyons and FADs, caught trolling heavy skirted lures.
- Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi) – 30–200 lbs. Peak summer around FADs, taken trolling or live baiting with skipjack.
- Mahi Mahi – 10–40 lbs. Late winter through spring, found around debris, buoys, and current lines.
- Ono (Wahoo) – 15–50 lbs. Best in spring along ledges, caught high-speed trolling.
- Striped Marlin – 40–120 lbs. Winter and early spring offshore, taken trolling mid-size lures.
- Shortbill Spearfish – 20–60 lbs. Year-round, most common in winter, caught offshore trolling small lures.
- Amberjack – 20–80 lbs. Deep reefs and structure, peak fall and winter, caught vertical jigging.
- Gray Snapper (Uku) – 5–15 lbs. Year-round on deep reefs, caught bottom fishing with bait or jigs.
Kawaihae Fishing FAQs
Where do Kawaihae fishing charters depart from?
Most trips launch directly from Kawaihae Harbor, a deep-water port with easy access to offshore grounds.
How close is the deep water to Kawaihae?
The drop-off lies just a few minutes from the harbor, so anglers are fishing bluewater almost immediately.
What species are common here?
Blue marlin, ahi, ono, mahi, striped marlin, and spearfish are the main offshore targets, with snapper and amberjack on the reefs.
Do charters run half-day or full-day trips?
Both are available. Half-days target closer FADs and ledges, while full-days chase marlin and tuna offshore.
What’s the best season for marlin?
Blue marlin are possible year-round, but June through August is peak season for giants.
Do charters provide all fishing gear?
Yes, rods, reels, bait, and tackle are included. Boats are rigged for heavy trolling and bottom fishing.
Are family-friendly trips offered?
Yes, many captains run shorter, calmer trips ideal for kids or first-time anglers.
Is a fishing license required?
No license is needed for saltwater charter fishing in Hawaii.
Do captains use live bait in Kawaihae?
Yes, when available, skipjack tuna are bridled and slow-trolled for yellowfin and marlin.